gemstone

Green tourmaline (likely elbaite)

Tourmaline group; likely elbaite, complex borosilicate such as Na(Li,Al)₃Al₆(BO₃)₃Si₆O₁₈(OH)₄

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Small rough green crystal aggregate with vitreous luster and prismatic form; tourmaline hardness is 7–7.5 Mohs, with no distinct cleavage, trigonal crystal symmetry, and specific gravity about 3.0–3.3.

Identified August 13, 2026More gemstone →

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At a glance

Common name: Green tourmaline (likely elbaite)
Scientific name: Tourmaline group; likely elbaite, complex borosilicate such as Na(Li,Al)₃Al₆(BO₃)₃Si₆O₁₈(OH)₄
Category: gemstone
Identified: August 13, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $5–$30 for a small opaque rough specimen; approximately $50–$500+ if unusually vivid, transparent, well-crystallized, or gem quality.

Not an official valuation

AI estimate for general interest only — not an appraisal. Actual value depends on condition, provenance, and market demand. Verify with a professional before buying, selling, or insuring.

This identification was generated by AI and may contain errors. Verify important details before relying on them — and never use an AI result to judge whether a specimen is safe to handle. Read the full disclaimer

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms mainly in lithium-rich granitic pegmatites through late-stage hydrothermal crystallization, generally during Precambrian to Phanerozoic magmatic events. The photograph alone cannot establish its geological age or exact species.

Uses & applications

Transparent gem-quality material is faceted for jewelry; opaque or fractured pieces are mainly collector specimens and sometimes used as mineral teaching samples.

Geological facts

Tourmaline is strongly pleochroic and becomes electrically polarized when heated or compressed (the pyroelectric and piezoelectric effects). Green color commonly results from iron, chromium, or vanadium.

Field identification & locations

Look for a glassy, elongated crystal with lengthwise striations, triangular/trigonal cross-section, and strong green color zoning; confirm with hardness, specific gravity, and analytical testing. Common sources include Brazil, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Mozambique, Nigeria, and the United States.