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trigonal Cyclosilicates

Schorl (Prismatic)

Formula NaFe3Al6(BO3)3Si6O18(OH)4

Crystal Structure

#! Species: Schorl #! System: Trigonal (3m) #! Habit: Elongated trigonal prism with striations trigonal[3m]:{10-10}@1.0[striation:parallel] + {10-11}@0.8 | elongate(c:2.5)
trigonal
3m
{10-10} {10-11}

Quick Facts

Hardness
7.0
Specific Gravity
3.1
Refractive Index
1.635
Optical Character
Uniaxial -

Physical Properties

Crystal System
trigonal
Hardness (Mohs)
7.0
Specific Gravity
3.1
Cleavage
Indistinct
Fracture
Uneven to conchoidal
Lustre
Vitreous to subvitreous

Optical Properties

Refractive Index
1.635
Birefringence
0.02
Optical Character
Uniaxial -
Pleochroism
strong: Dark brown-black / Lighter brown

Characteristics

Colours
BlackVery dark brown
Localities
Worldwide (most common tourmaline species)BrazilGermanyAfghanistanUSA
Common Inclusions
Growth tubesNeedle inclusions
Known Treatments
None
Crystal Forms
prismdipyramid