mineral
Black Tourmaline
Schorl (NaFe2+3Al6(Si6O18)(BO3)3(OH,F,O)4)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 7-7.5 on the Mohs scale, black color, vitreous to submetallic luster, trigonal crystal system with distinct striated prismatic crystals, conchoidal fracture, and specific gravity of 3.0-3.2.
Identified More mineral →
Explore Black Tourmaline in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness of 7-7.5 on the Mohs scale, black color, vitreous to submetallic luster, trigonal crystal system with distinct striated prismatic crystals, conchoidal fracture, and specific gravity of 3.0-3.2.
Formation & geological history
Forms primarily in pegmatites, hydrothermal veins, and metamorphic rocks like schists and gneisses through the crystallization of magma rich in boron and water.
Uses & applications
Widely used in metaphysical practices, holistic healing, gemstone jewelry, and occasionally in industrial applications due to its pyroelectric and piezoelectric properties.
Geological facts
Black tourmaline is known scientifically as schorl, which historically was also a village in Germany where the mineral was found as early as 1400.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified in the field by its characteristic triangular cross-section, striated vertical prism faces, and lack of cleavage. Commonly found worldwide, notably in Brazil, Pakistan, and the USA.
More like this
Other mineral specimens
Gneiss or Schist
Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous
Septarian Pebble
Septarian nodule / Concretion
sedimentary