Tourmaline Gemstone

 Tourmaline is a mineral group that is chemically one of the most complicated groups of silicate minerals. It is an extremely complex borosilicate that occurs in more than 100 colors. It is hard and durable and very well suited for jewelry. Tourmaline belongs to the trigonal crystal system and occurs as long, slender to thick prismatic and columnar crystals that are usually triangular in cross-section. It is distinguished by its three-sided prisms; no other common mineral has three sides. Prisms faces often have heavy vertical striations that produce a rounded triangular effect.

The colored varieties, when transparent and free from flaws, are cut as gems. Transparent crystals of tourmaline are dichroic - the depth of color varies as the crystal is turned in the light. It is 7.5 on the Mohs scale and has no cleavage, making it suitable for many types of jewelry use. Sometimes referred to as the “electric stone,” tourmaline becomes statically charged when heated or rubbed, attracting dust, lint and small pieces of paper.

Tourmaline along with opal are birthstones of a person under the zodiac sign of Libra (Balance) from Sept. 23 - Oct. 23. Multicolored Tourmaline is the anniversary gemstone for the 8th year of marriage. The healing ability of tourmaline calms nerves, regulates hormones, fights against genetic disorders and induces a tranquil sleep.According to legend, the tourmaline of all colors protects the wearer against many dangers and misfortune. It was a talisman for artists, actors and writers. Today,it is mined extensively in South America, East Africa and in Southern California.