This pack holds about 1.5 kg of raw tourmaline in roughly 10–15 pieces. Each one is a solid, elongated prism, with the long ridges typical of tourmaline running down its sides. They have not been polished, so they look just as they came out of the rock. Origin: India.
Known by its ridges
A tourmaline crystal grows lengthwise and forms fine, straight grooves as it does. Those ridges make it easy to recognise, even on a rough, broken piece. The name comes from the Sinhalese turamali, a word used in Sri Lanka for mixed coloured gemstones.
Dutch traders in the 18th century called it the “ash puller”. They noticed that a warmed crystal drew the ash from their pipes towards it. Tourmaline becomes electrically charged when heated, which explains the trick.
10–15 stones, each a different shape
Shapes and sizes vary, so your pack will not match the photo exactly. You can stand the larger pieces on a bookshelf or windowsill and fill a small bowl with the smaller ones. There are enough to give one or two to a friend who collects minerals.
A stone of protection in tradition
Tourmaline is regarded in crystal tradition as a stone of protection. If you share that view, place a piece near the front door or on your desk. It also suits a school mineral collection, since the raw prism shows clearly how the crystal grew.
Broken edges can be sharp and may chip if knocked. Brush off dust with a soft brush.