Photo of Achroite Tourmaline in Processed & Rough Form
Achroite Tourmaline is a mineral with a hardness of 8 out of 10 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness [?]. These Trigonally structured gems are made of borosilicate, their full chemical compound being Na(Li,Al)3Al6(BO3)3Si6O18(OH)4.
Colorless Tourmaline, also known as white or Achroite Tourmaline is the name given to the clear or colorless version of Tourmaline. The word achroite is Greek for colorless.
If you are into birthstones then Achroite Tourmaline is one of the ones used for October. If you follow the zodiac then it's used to represent Libra.
Tourmaline in general is found on every continent and is possibly the most versatile gem in terms of color variations. If you buy white/clear tourmaline of a low grade it may have at one time been pink. Heat is applied to pink tourmaline to turn it white sometimes.
What is Achroite Tourmaline?
Achroite is a rare, completely colorless variety of tourmaline. The name comes from the Greek "achros," meaning colorless. It's considered one of the rarest forms of tourmaline.
How can I identify Achroite Tourmaline?
True Achroite is completely colorless and transparent. It has strong pleochroism (optical property) when viewed from different angles, and exhibits typical tourmaline crystal structure. Often confused with quartz or topaz.
Where is it found?
Main deposits are in Brazil, Madagascar, and Sri Lanka. Small quantities have been found in Maine, USA, and parts of Russia.
Why is it valuable?
Its rarity and the unusual lack of color make it highly sought after by collectors. Clear specimens without inclusions are extremely rare, as most tourmalines contain some trace elements that create color.
How is it used?
Primarily in high-end jewelry and collected by mineral enthusiasts. Its clarity makes it popular for faceted gems, though large, clean specimens are uncommon.
Where is tourmaline found? In general tourmaline can be found in Africa, Brazil, Canada, Madagascar, Sri Lanka, Canada, United States, and Tanzania.
Achroite tourmaline is a rare and unique gemstone that has been prized for centuries for its beauty and rarity. It is a type of tourmaline, a group of minerals that are found in a variety of colors, including pink, green, blue, yellow, and black. Achroite tourmaline is the rarest of all tourmalines, and is colorless or nearly colorless. It is also known as "watermelon tourmaline" due to its unique color pattern, which resembles the rind of a watermelon.
Achroite tourmaline is found in a variety of locations around the world, including Brazil, Afghanistan, and the United States. It is usually found in pegmatites, which are large, coarse-grained igneous rocks that are formed when molten magma cools and crystallizes. The tourmaline crystals are usually found in pockets within the pegmatite, and can range in size from a few millimeters to several centimeters.
The name "achroite" comes from the Greek word "achros", which means "colorless". This is fitting, as achroite tourmaline is usually colorless or nearly colorless. It can also have a faint pink or yellow hue, and sometimes even a hint of green. The colorless variety is the most sought after, as it is the rarest and most valuable.
Achroite tourmaline is a very hard gemstone, with a hardness of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale. This makes it suitable for use in jewelry, as it is resistant to scratches and other damage. It is also very durable, and can last for many years with proper care.
Achroite tourmaline is believed to have many metaphysical properties. It is said to be a stone of protection, and can help to ward off negative energy and protect the wearer from harm. It is also believed to be a stone of creativity and inspiration, and can help to bring out the best in people.
Achroite tourmaline is a rare and beautiful gemstone that has been prized for centuries. It is a type of tourmaline that is usually colorless or nearly colorless, and is found in a variety of locations around the world. It is a very hard gemstone, with a hardness of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale, and is believed to have many metaphysical properties. It is an excellent choice for jewelry, as it is both beautiful and durable.
The specific gravity [?] for Achroite Tourmaline is 3.06, its refractive index [?] is 1.62-1.64, and its double refraction [?] is 0.018.
History
Ancient Egyptians believed it to be a magical gem that traveled to the surface of the earth from the core. It's electrical and magnetic properties were thought to grant the holder special mental and spiritual powers.
Industrial Usages
Tourmaline is used in some cosmetics. In general however due low availability of high quality tourmalines this gem is not widely coveted for industrial applications.
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