Black Tourmaline is a silicate mineral containing boron & is the most abundant variety of tourmaline in nature. The crystal has a naturally occurring sheen which gives it a polished appearance. It also often features inclusions of the mineral, mica which is silver in color, resulting in a dazzling combination of dark and light that is highly prized.
It was originally named Schorl in 1400 A.D. by a small village in Saxony, Germany in homage to the original name of the town. Tourmalines have been used & traded since ancient times, but only became popular as a fashion stone nearly 150 years ago, when in 1876, George Kunz sold a Green Tourmaline, originating in Maine, to what is now known as Tiffany and Co.
Long before that, Tourmalines were used throughout the Mediterranean during ancient times. A statue of Alexander the Great, discovered in India & carved from India's native tourmalines, dates to the 2nd-3rd centuries BCE.
Black Tourmaline is considered a crystal of protection & can help with anxiety, stress & sleep. The Black Tourmaline crystal properties work like a sponge, soaking up all the negative energy that surrounds it. Because of its powerful ability to clear negativity, Black Tourmaline crystal is also a key component in everyday cleansing rituals.
These fabulous specimens are from the Erongo region of Namibia.
