Where is Tourmaline found?
Tourmaline (Elbaite variety for pink, Schorl or Dravite for green)
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Open the appTourmaline 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 Tourmaline
Brazil
Minas Gerais is a world-renowned source for gem-quality Tourmaline, particularly Elbaite varieties (pink, green, blue, multi-colored).
United States
Maine and California (especially San Diego County) are historically significant for gem-quality Elbaite, including pink and green varieties.
Afghanistan
Known for fine gem-quality Tourmaline, including pink, green, and blue varieties, often found in pegmatites.
Pakistan
Produces excellent gem-quality Tourmaline, similar to Afghanistan, from pegmatite deposits.
Africa (e.g., Nigeria, Mozambique, Madagascar, Tanzania)
Significant sources of various gem-quality Tourmaline colors, including pink, green, and Paraíba-type (copper-bearing) Tourmaline.
Sri Lanka
Historically a source of various Tourmaline colors, often found in alluvial deposits.
Collecting tips
- Look in Pegmatites. Tourmaline, especially gem-quality Elbaite, is most commonly found in granitic pegmatites. Look for areas with coarse-grained igneous rocks.
- Check Hydrothermal Veins. Some Tourmaline varieties can be found in hydrothermal veins associated with granitic intrusions.
- Examine Metamorphic Rocks. Dravite (brown Tourmaline) is often found in magnesium-rich metamorphic rocks like schists and gneisses.
- Identify Crystal Habit. Look for elongated prismatic crystals, often with vertical striations and a characteristic rounded triangular cross-section.
- Consider Color and Luster. Tourmaline exhibits a wide range of colors and a vitreous to resinous luster. Black Schorl is very common in granitic rocks.
Quick Check
- Color:
- Highly variable (black, pink, green, blue, brown, yellow, colorless, multi-colored)
- Luster:
- Vitreous to resinous
- Streak:
- White
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