mineral

Tourmaline in Quartz Matrix

Complex silicate of boron and aluminum (Schorl/Elbaite/Dravite) - Na(Li,Al)3Al6(BO3)3Si6O18(OH)4

Hardness: 7-7.5 (tourmaline) and 7 (quartz). Color: Dark greenish-blue to black prisms in white/brownish translucent quartz. Luster: Vitreous to resinous. Crystal structure: Trigonal prismatic crystals radiating within a quartz matrix. Cleavage: Indistinct to poor.

Hardness: 7-7
Luster: Vitreous to resinous

Identified July 26, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms in igneous pegmatites and metamorphic hydrothermal veins where boron-rich fluids interact with surrounding rocks during crystallization.

Uses & applications

Popular as a mineral specimen for display and collection. Green or blue tourmaline (verdelite/indicolite) is used as a gemstone when gem-grade.

Geological facts

Tourmaline displays pyroelectric and piezoelectric properties, meaning it can generate an electric charge under heat or pressure. It comes in more colors than almost any other mineral group.

Field identification & locations

Identified by elongating prismatic crystals with vertical striations embedded in a glassy quartz matrix. Commonly found in pegmatite districts such as Brazil, Madagascar, Maine, and California.

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