Black Tourmaline Stone: History, Formation, & Metaphysical Properties

Black tourmaline is a unique mineral that appeals to both scientific and metaphysical communities. Believed to be one of the most powerful protective and cleansing stones in existence, it is an excellent tool to use during any part of your spiritual journey. Whether placed around your home or carried with you, this stone is a must-have for any collector or crystal healing enthusiast.

Tourmaline is the most colorful stone in the mineral kingdom, but the black variety is the most common – as well as one of the most sought after. It is a relatively common crystal, but its healing properties are anything but ordinary. This dark and mysterious stone has an interesting structure that makes it unique among other minerals and has been extensively studied by geologists for this reason. Whether you are new to working with crystals or you are a seasoned pro, black tourmaline is a must-have for any gemstone collection.

Black Tourmaline History

Tourmaline was first discovered off of Italy’s western coast by Dutch traders around the late 1600s or early 1700s. At the time, it was virtually indistinguishable from many other stones, and the name came from the Sinhalese word “turmali,” which was used by the people of Sri Lanka to describe mixed gemstones of various colors.

Because it forms in so many colors, it was often mistaken for other gemstones until modern mineralogy was able to accurately distinguish it from other minerals. Black tourmaline has likely been used by many cultures in various ways since the dawn of civilization, though it was probably thought to be a different type of crystal at the time.

Black Tourmaline Physical Properties

Black tourmaline ranges in colors from dark blue and dark brown to true black. It is a form of silicate that contains boron and, sometimes, other inclusions. The black variety of tourmaline is typically opaque, but it may be slightly translucent. It forms in three-sided prisms and has vertical striations that set it apart from other gemstones.

Black tourmaline is a hard stone with a rating of 7 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale. It is durable against scratches and breakage, though it can often be separated along its vertical striations. Forming as an accessory mineral in metamorphic and igneous rock, it is found in several places around the world. Touramaline comes from many places around the world, including both small streams and large mines. At Crystal Allies, we source our specimens from the Erongo Mountains of Namibia and Skardu, Pakistan.

The most stunning tourmaline crystals are formed as a result of hydrothermal activity. When the elements needed to form it are carried by hot water and vapor and fractures, crystals of all sizes begin to form. A particularly rich pocket of tourmaline can yield numerous specimens with total values of millions of dollars.

Metaphysical Properties of Black Tourmaline

While black tourmaline is of interest to the scientific community, it is held in especially high esteem by the metaphysical community. Many people believe that it is a powerful “bodyguard” that protects one against all types of negative energy. It is an all-around energy cleanser that acts as a disinfectant for the soul and purifies the chakras. It is said to eliminate negative thought patterns, block electromagnetic radiation from electronic devices, and much, much more.

The vertical striations present along the sides of tourmaline aid in the flow of energy. For this reason, it is an excellent crystal for energy enhancement, healing, and the removal of blockages. It is also believed to be an incredibly powerful stone for grounding and that it helps form strong connections between the human spirit and the Earth. It balances and protects all of the chakras.

Black Tourmaline Healing Properties

Physically, black tourmaline is thought to balance the right and left hemispheres of the brain, strengthen the immune system, and detoxify the body. It is often used to treat illnesses of the lungs, including pneumonia, emphysema, and bronchitis. It is also thought to support the kidneys and adrenal glands and increase physical vitality.

Black tourmaline also has a calming effect and is widely thought of as one of the most effective and powerful crystals for anxiety. Simply holding a piece of this crystal in each hand can help one overcome feelings of stress and fear. This remarkable crystal can also be used to help people who struggle with frequent worrying, negative thoughts, and even obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). It boosts self-confidence and protects against psychic attack, too.

This stone is also used to protect against the electromagnetic “smog” from computers, cell phones, televisions, microwaves, etc. It also protects one against radiation, noise sensitivity, and other disturbances. Overall, it is a highly protective stone that blocks negativity and cleanses dense energy.

Spiritually, black tourmaline helps bring a clear expression of light into the world. Those who are drawn to its powers may experience an increased ability to remain positive even in the darkest of circumstances. This stone clears blockages in the aura and can be used to direct energies from the ethereal body and crown chakra to the base chakra. Depending on your date of birth, this crystal may also help you connect with your guardian angel.

How to Use Black Tourmaline

A piece of black tourmaline.

There are countless ways in which to use black tourmaline. It can be worn as jewelry or carried in your pocket as a protective talisman. You can also place pieces of it above the doors and windows of your home to prevent negative energies and entities from entering. Place it near your computer and other electronic devices to protect yourself from electromagnetic radiation.

Black tourmaline is an incredibly powerful tool to use during meditation and healing practices. It is effective in body layouts and in crystal grids. It is a must-have for any gemstone collection and can be incorporated into your daily life in countless ways.

Crystal Allies offers high-quality black tourmaline from Pakistan and Namibia. Whether you are looking for small pieces to carry in your pocket or place over your doors and windows, or you are in the market for a beautiful display piece, we have exactly what you need. Shop today to add this remarkable stone to your personal collection.

NOTE: All content on this website is provided for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.