Mineralogical characteristics
Tourmalines are a group of mixed crystals belonging to the borosilicate family. They include different species, among them schorl, which is black; elbaite, which can show pink, red, green or blue tones; and dravite, generally brown.
Elbaite is one of the most valued species for its chromatic variety. Among its best-known varieties are indicolite, blue in color; rubellite, with pink or red tones; watermelon tourmaline, with a pink interior and green surface; and verdelite, green in color.
Although tourmalines have variable compositions, they share the same crystal structure. Their crystals are usually prismatic, with highly characteristic parallel striations. The most abundant variety is black tourmaline, also called schorl or cathedral.
Tourmaline is usually found in pegmatites, granites, hydrothermal veins and pneumatolytic veins. It is also a mineral used in industry for its piezoelectric properties.
Deposits
Brazil, India, Afghanistan, United States, Canada, Mexico, Namibia, Russia, Africa and Madagascar.
Therapeutic properties
Tourmaline is considered a stone of cleansing, protection and transformation. It is attributed with the ability to balance the body on an energetic level and transform dense energies thanks to the striated structure of its crystals.
Blue tourmaline or indicolite is associated with the throat and third eye chakras. It is used to stimulate communication, encourage understanding and support mental clarity.
Black tourmaline is considered one of the most important protection stones. It is said to absorb dense energies and direct them toward the earth to be transmuted. It is also used in therapeutic spaces or places where one seeks to keep the environment energetically clean.
Red tourmaline or rubellite is related to the root chakra and the heart chakra. It is considered a stone of vitality, love and emotional revitalization.
Pink tourmaline is associated with the heart chakra. It supports self-love, confidence and emotional openness.
Watermelon tourmaline combines green and pink energy in the same crystal, so it is considered especially linked to heart balance. It harmonizes, softens and activates the 4th chakra.
Green tourmaline is associated with healing, transformation and heart opening. It is used to relax, calm the mind, support rest and strengthen vitality.