Tourmaline and Feldspar

Specimens of tourmaline and feldspar from Pitscurrie Quarry, Pitcaple, Aberdeenshire, Scotland. These samples of tourmaline have formed with both plagioclase and orthoclase feldspar as well as quartz and some trace amounts of mica and garnet. This has resulted in specimens with a rather unique and chaotic appearance as the black of the tourmaline contrasts with the pale pink and white of the feldspar. Tourmaline is crystalline mineral which is also classified as a semi precious stone, due to the various colours it can be found in and the high quality of their crystals. It is a boron silicate compound which usually appears jet black in colour and is known to exhibit pyroelectric properties because it was found to attract hot ashes. Samples are supplied in a white card tray with an information label and would make an excellent addition to any British minerals collection.