mineral
Moonstone with Black Tourmaline
Feldspar (KAlSi3O8) with inclusions of Schorl (NaFe3Al6(BO3)3Si6O18(OH)4)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 6-6.5 (Moonstone), 7-7.5 (Tourmaline); Color: White/creamy with black inclusions; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Monoclinic/Triclinic (Feldspar) and Hexagonal (Tourmaline).
- Hardness
- 6-6
- Color
- White/creamy with black inclusions
- Luster
- Vitreous to pearly
Identified More mineral →
Explore Moonstone with Black Tourmaline in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 6-6.5 (Moonstone), 7-7.5 (Tourmaline); Color: White/creamy with black inclusions; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Monoclinic/Triclinic (Feldspar) and Hexagonal (Tourmaline).
Formation & geological history
Forms in igneous and metamorphic environments, specifically in pegmatites where slow cooling allows large crystals of feldspar and tourmaline to grow together.
Uses & applications
Primarily used for ornamental purposes, jewelry (cabochons), and by mineral collectors for its metaphysical associations.
Geological facts
The 'Moonstone' here is usually a variety of white Labradorite or Orthoclase; when it contains black needle-like inclusions, it is often referred to as Black Tourmaline in Moonstone.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by looking for the 'adularescence' (blue/white sheen) of the feldspar combined with the distinct trigonal/hexagonal black prismatic tourmaline crystals. Found commonly in Madagascar and India.
