Where is Schorl Tourmaline in Quartz found?

Schorl Tourmaline in Quartz occurs in specific geological environments. Knowing where to look, and in what kind of rock, is the difference between going home empty-handed and finding a great specimen.

Where to find Schorl Tourmaline in Quartz

Collecting tips

1. Geological Context. Focus on areas known for pegmatites, granitic intrusions, or hydrothermal vein systems. Look for outcrops of these rock types.
2. Associated Minerals. Schorl tourmaline often co-occurs with feldspar, mica (muscovite, biotite), garnet, and other pegmatitic minerals. The presence of these can indicate a favorable environment.
3. Crystal Habit. Look for the characteristic prismatic, often striated, black crystals of schorl embedded in or growing alongside quartz. Schorl can sometimes form radiating aggregates.
4. Hardness Test. Quartz (Mohs 7) will scratch glass and steel. Schorl (Mohs 7-7.5) is slightly harder than quartz and will also scratch glass.
5. Density. Schorl is denser than quartz (SG 3.0-3.2 for schorl vs. 2.65 for quartz), so specimens with a high proportion of schorl may feel noticeably heavier than pure quartz of the same size.

Quick Check

Color:

Colorless to milky white quartz with opaque black inclusions.

Luster:

Vitreous (glassy) for both components.

Streak:

White for quartz, colorless for schorl (though often not practical to obtain due to hardness).

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