Tourmaline

Tourmaline is a group of minerals that include Schorl, Elibite and Dravite amongst others. They come in a huge variety of different colours, some of the most popular being Black, Green, Pink and Watermelon. It has been known about for centuries, but often confused with other precious gemstones, such as Pink Tourmaline for Rubies and Green Tourmaline for Emeralds, and so wasn't officially classified until the 1800s. The name 'Tourmaline' actually comes from a Sinhalese word that means 'many coloured stones'. It is said that to dream of a Tourmaline is to foretell of an accident. Most gem quality Tourmalines are members of the Elbaite group - green Verdite, pink Rubellite and blue Indicolite amongst others. Watermelon Tourmaline is another popular variety, particularly for jewellery, and is characterised by its green outside layer with pink in the centre. Tourmaline crystals are both piezoelectric and pyroelectric, which means they gain an electrical charge when put under pressure or heated. They are also the most magnetic transparent gemstones! These properties of electrical charge mean that the gems will attract dust, or other very light weight matter. This led to them being known as 'ash drawers', or 'asshentrekers' by the Dutch in the 1800s. This also led to them being used in pressure sensitive gauges.

Tourmaline can have a wide variety of metaphysical properties, depending on it's main colour. Blue Tourmaline serves as a powerful communication crystal, assisting individuals in expressing their thoughts and emotions with clarity and authenticity. Black Tourmaline, on the other hand, is renowned for its strength and protective qualities, creating a shield against negative energies and psychic attacks. Green Tourmaline, with its soothing energy, helps balance the emotional body, promoting a sense of harmony and stability. Pink Tourmaline, or Rubellite, ignites passion and drive, encouraging individuals to pursue their goals with enthusiasm and determination. Watermelon Tourmaline helps to combine the energies of Pink and Green Tourmaline, creating a harmonious blend that balances and aligns both the male and female energies within.