mineral

Quartz with Schorl (Black Tourmaline)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Sodium Iron Aluminum Borosilicate (NaFe3Al6(BO3)3Si6O18(OH)4)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 7 (Quartz) to 7.5 (Schorl). Color: White/Translucent milky quartz with jet-black opaque inclusions. Luster: Vitreous to greasy. Crystal structure: Trigonal. Specific gravity: 2.65 - 3.2.

Hardness: 7 (Quartz) to 7
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified July 5, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 (Quartz) to 7.5 (Schorl). Color: White/Translucent milky quartz with jet-black opaque inclusions. Luster: Vitreous to greasy. Crystal structure: Trigonal. Specific gravity: 2.65 - 3.2.

Formation & geological history

Formed in granitic pegmatites and hydrothermal veins through late-stage crystallization of magma enriched with boron and silica. Found across various geological ages from Precambrian to Cenozoic.

Uses & applications

Commonly used for lapidary work, cabochons, and as a collector's mineral specimen. Quartz is used industrially in glass making and electronics.

Geological facts

Black tourmaline (Schorl) is one of the most common varieties of tourmaline and is pyroelectric, meaning it generates an electrical charge when heated. Specimens where it is embedded in quartz are highly valued by mineral collectors for the high contrast.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by the hard, glassy white host rock (no cleavage) and the distinctive needle-like or blocky black inclusions with vertical striations. Typical in igneous regions like Brazil, Namibia, and California.