Mineral Species: Schorl

Chemical Formula: Na(Mg,Fe,Mn,Li,Al)3Al6(Si6O18)(BO3)3(OH,F)4

Chemical Name: Sodium Aluminium Borosilicate

Mineral Class: Cyclosilicate

Mineral Notes: Tourmaline is actually a misnomer, describing several closely related, but chemically different, minerals. The variety Schorl is a tourmaline species rich in iron and managenese, which give rise to the dark colouration. Tourmalines are highly sought-after gemstones particulalry when the colour changes along the length of the crystal due to changes in composition during growth. 

Description: An extremely-well formed crystal of Schorl in a matrix of white Albite. The faces show striations and the temination forms a perfect flattened-trigonal pyramid. Together with a pronounced glassy luster this is a wonderful display specimen.

Location: Kunar, Balistan, Pakistan.