The official state gemstone of Maine, tourmaline is a complex crystalline silicate containing aluminum, boron and other elements. Its name derives from the Sinhalese (Sri Lankan) word tura mali, meaning "stone of mixed colors," and tourmaline is indeed found in blue (indicolite), yellow, pink to red (rubellite), black (schorl), green, dravite (brown) and clear (achroite) varieties. We usually carry black, pink, and multicolor tourmaline beads.
This semiprecious gemstone is piezoelectric (when it's heated, rubbed or pressurized the crystal gives it an electric charge). It is also pleochroic (looking darker from some angles than others). Protect tourmaline from scratches, sharp blows, and drastic temperature changes. Do not clean tourmaline in a home ultrasonic cleaner. Tourmaline beads are said to dispel fear, negativity, and grief. Many say tourmaline induces tranquil sleep, calms nerves, regulates hormones, and fights genetic disorders.
Learn more about Tourmaline in our Gemstone Index.