Tourmaline is a complex boron silicate mineral group celebrated for displaying the widest spectrum of colors found in any gemstone family. This versatile crystal forms in long, prismatic shapes with distinctive triangular cross-sections and often exhibits multiple colors within a single specimen, creating stunning bi-color and watermelon varieties. Tourmaline's unique pyroelectric and piezoelectric properties mean it can generate electrical charges when heated or subjected to pressure, making it both scientifically fascinating and metaphysically significant.
Specifications:
- Color range: Complete spectrum including pink, green, blue, yellow, orange, red, black, clear, and multicolored specimens (watermelon, bi-color, and parti-colored varieties)
- Hardness: 7 to 7.5 on Mohs scale (excellent durability for all types of jewelry)
- Origin: Brazil, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Maine (USA), Nigeria, Madagascar, and Sri Lanka
- Sizes: Available from small chips and beads (2-4mm) to large specimen crystals (several inches long), with faceted gems typically 1-20+ carats
- Shapes: Natural prismatic crystals with triangular cross-sections, faceted gems in various cuts, cabochons, beads, and rough specimens
- Clarity: Ranges from eye-clean transparent specimens to included stones with natural internal characteristics
- Special properties: Pyroelectric and piezoelectric properties, strong pleochroism in some varieties, and vitreous luster
- Varieties: Popular types include Pink Tourmaline (rubellite), Green Tourmaline (verdelite), Blue Tourmaline (indicolite), Black Tourmaline (schorl), and Watermelon Tourmaline
