"To the same class of fiery red stones belong the 'lychnis' [probably tourmaline] so called form the kindling of lamps, because at that time it is exceptionally beautiful...I find that there are other varieties as well, one of which has a purple and the other a scarlet sheen. These when heated in the sun or being rubbed between the fingers, are said to attract straws and papyrus fibers." -- Pliny the Elder (AD 23-79)
Tourmalines are a very interesting family of stones. They are availible in every colour, as well as multiple colours at once. They also have elecromagnetic properties. Some varieties will produce electricity when pressure is applied to the ends. Others will become magnetic when they are heated, producing a positive charge at one end, and negative at the other. A charge could even be produced simply by rubbing the stone with a cloth.
This charge was first utilised by Dutch colonists, who used heated Tourmaline pieces to clean ash from pipes. Today, it is used in a variety of industrial settings, including the making of thermometers. The Dutch are also credited with popularising Tourmaline in Europe during the 18th century.
Tourmaline was originally mined in Sri Lanka, and it's name comes from a Sinhalese word meaning "multi-coloured." Gems imported from that mine have been found in ancient jewelry of both Greece and Rome. It has also been found in use by Shamen in Africa, Australia and North America.
Every variety of this stone is believed to be protective and inspiring. It is a tolerant, serene, compassionate, objective, and generally pleasent stone, and gives these characteristics to those who wear it. This peace and serenity is why Tourmaline is also believed to give a good night's sleep.
Personally, I only have experience with Black and Watermelon Tourmaline, so those are the varieties that I will discuss here.
Black Tourmaline is the most common variety of Tourmaline availible. It is a pure black, opaque, and highly reflective stone. It is grounding and very, very protective. It can protect it's wearer from enchantments, psychic vampires, muggers, accidents, and even depressing environments. When worn near the heart for a long period of time, it can isolate one's own energy and aura, acting as a brick wall between you and any outside force that could possibly hurt you. The only downside to such protection is that one would, essentially, have to carry a brick wall with every step.
Watermelon Tourmaline on the other hand, is relatively rare, and is a stone of healing. It is translucent, and is naturally both pink and green. It is believed to heal all wounds of the heart and spirit. It opens up the heart to new love, and gives a love of all humanity. Combining pink and green, Watermelon Tourmaline is also believed to increase confidence, spirituality, wisdom, prosperity, and willpower.
As I wrote, Tourmaline is availible in EVERY colour, and Black is the only type that isn't translucent. For every characteristic, there is a Tourmaline corresponding to it.
Tourmaline is the traditional birthstone for October. Lucky buggers. You can join Unsolved Mysteries and post your own mysteries or
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