What is Tourmaline?

Tourmaline minerals can be mined in pegmatites and metamorphose limestones that were in contact with granite. They were formed in high pressure and temperature environments where specific elements were present. Different impurities resulted in multiple Tourmaline species that are categorized by their coloration and known as Rubellite, Indicolite, Schorl, Dravite, Achroite, Paraiba, Verdelite and Uvite. The complex of the structure and the chemistry of the mineral also result in polarity in terms of the coloration. 

Tourmaline is a boron silicate mineral with a complex structure. It’s a hard crystal with a 7 to 7.5 score on the Mohs scale. This mineral shows brittle and uneven fractures when it breaks. Tourmaline also exhibits “pyroelectricity” when heated or rubbed which leads to attracting small lightweight objects.

Tourmaline’s name comes from the Sinhalese word “turmali” which was the universal term used to name all the colored crystals in Sri Lanka back in the day.

Where is Tourmaline Found?

Tourmaline can be found all over the world in countries such as Brazil, Italy, India, Burma, Sri Lanka and others. It can also be mined in many parts of Africa like Nigeria, Namibia, Mozambique, Madagascar, Tanzania and Kenya.

Tourmaline Meaning

Tourmaline stones are used to enhance calming and grounding energies. With this you can expect positive thinking and creativity to fill up your mind! The black variety is especially known for banishing negativity and anxious feelings. This makes it a great stone to wear everyday or place on your desk! Another helpful benefit is providing you with compassion and tolerance towards others, especially in conflict. Tourmalines can be used on multiple chakras depending on the specific colors. Schorl is a Base Chakra crystal that will increase emotional stability, Indicolite can be used to cleanse the Throat Chakra, green and pink Tourmaline are associated with the Heart Chakra and will get you ready to give and receive love openly.

Tourmaline is the perfect pick for introducing soothing energies to your space. According to Feng Shui Bagua maps, you can opt for placing it close to your front door for protection against unwanted energy and in the Kan area to gain more clarity about your path in life. Other optimal ways to use this crystal is as Tourmaline bracelets, earrings and necklaces. You can also include it to some practices like meditation and crystal gridding or simply use it as a pocket stone. It’s an ideal gift choice for people that have Libra and Virgo placements as well!