Tourmaline
Mohs Hardness: 7-7.5 Found in Russia, Madagascar, Sri Lanka, Brazil, Myanmar, Tanzania, Nambia, South Africa, Zinbabwe, Mozambique, Kenya & the USA History: There are currently 10 different varieties in the tourmaline family. The name is derived from ancient Singhalese term turmali (mixed colored stones). Tourmaline is estimated to have been used as a gem for over 2000 years, especially by the Chinese. In 1703 a package of this stone was sent by mistake to Amsterdam. The Dutch noticed that the stone attracted ashes and straw when heated, and named the stones aschenstrekkers (ash drawers). Magicians used it in Sri Lanka to tell prophecies from the ashes. Tourmaline and Quartz are the only two common stones known to be pzioelectric, or capable of producing opposite electrical charges when pressure is exerted on both ends of a crystal. Metaphysical: In ancient times the stone was believed to glow with its own energy. It symbolized wealth, friendship and love. Reported to balance male/female energies, attract love, success and management. Types of Tourmaline include: Elbaite(multi), Verdilite(green), Watermelon(pink & green), Rubellite(pink to red), Indicolite(blue), Dravite(yellow to brown), Achroite(clear), Schorl(black), Pariba(neon blue green) & Siberite(purple)