The Encyclopedia of Crystals, Herbs, and New Age Elements: An A to Z Guide to New Age Elements and How to Use Them - Adams Media 2016

Tourmaline
The Power of Stones: Crystals and Gemstones

ORIGINS

Tourmaline is a crystalline silicate mineral containing aluminum, boron, and other elements. It is found in almost every color, including multicolored (elbaite) and pink-and-green “watermelon” varieties, but the most common type is iron-rich black tourmaline, also known as schorl. Tourmaline is found in the United States, Brazil, Africa, Afghanistan, and Sri Lanka.

HISTORY/LORE

When tourmaline was first mined, no distinction was made between it and other gemstones. Throughout history, “rubies” were often misidentified red tourmaline stones, and green tourmaline was often mistaken for emerald. Today, tourmaline is recognized and appreciated in its own right, and was popularized in the United States beginning in the late 1800s when Tiffany gemologist George F. Kunz praised the stones found in Maine and California.

USES

Healing Uses: The striations in a tourmaline crystal enhance energy flow, making this an excellent healing stone, particularly in wand form. Blue tourmaline is useful for identifying the underlying causes of a disease. Yellow tourmaline treats the digestive and cleansing organs of the body, including the stomach, liver, spleen, kidneys, and gallbladder. Red tourmaline heals the heart and blood vessels. Watermelon tourmaline helps to regenerate the nerves.

Magical Uses: Tourmaline is a shamanic stone that provides protection during rituals. It can be used for scrying or to indicate the direction in which a person should move. Blue tourmaline brings psychic awareness and facilitates visions. Brown tourmaline is an excellent grounding stone that also clears the aura. Wear black tourmaline to protect against electromagnetic smog, radiation, psychic attack, and spells.

Feng Shui Uses: Black tourmaline uses water energy and is the best variety of this stone for feng shui. It is most beneficial when placed in the northern area of a space or the Career/Path in Life sector of the home.

Personal/Spiritual Growth: Watermelon tourmaline activates the heart chakra, providing a link to the higher self and promoting love, tenderness, and friendship. Green tourmaline inspires creativity. Black tourmaline clears negative thoughts and fosters a laid-back, positive attitude, regardless of the circumstances.