Schorl Tourmaline Faceting Information
All the resources needed for Schorl Tourmaline faceting. Information such as tips, tricks and details to help learn more about Schorl Tourmaline faceting.
Schorl Tourmaline
Color: Black, usually opaque
Moh's Hardness: 7-7.5
Refractive Index: 1.616-1.652
Critical Angle: 38.23°
Specific Gravity: 3.02-3.26
Cleavage: None
Fracture: Uneven, small conchoidal.
Dispersion: .017
Heat Sensitivity: Not usually a problem
Dichroic: Opaque
Birefringence (double refraction): Medium (.014-.024)
Crystal structure: Hexagonal
Treatments: Generally there is no treatments with this kind of rough, it is opaque black.
What I prefer to polishing with: Alumina oxide with a tin lap (scored).
Jeff's Comments: Cuts and polishes like any other Tourmaline, usually no problems. The material is black and generally not cut much, although I do know people that use Schorl for intarsia and inlay work because it is harder and will wear better that most other traditional materials (like jet or coral). Aslo is makes very nice cut beads.
Design Notes: About any design will work.
Jeff R. Graham
The late Jeff Graham was a prolific faceter, creator of many original faceting designs, and the author of several highly-regarded instructional faceting books such as Gram Faceting Designs.
Related Articles
Tourmaline Gem, Price, and Jewelry Information
Mint Tourmalines: Gemstones for Our Times
Tourmaline Engagement Rings: the Ultimate Guide
How Do Tourmalines Form?
Latest Articles
Classic Engagement Ring Stones
Broken Bangle — The Blunder-Besmirched History of Jade Nomenclature: Book Review
Cuprite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Gemstone Radiation Treatment
Never Stop Learning
When you join the IGS community, you get trusted diamond & gemstone information when you need it.
Get Gemology Insights
Get started with the International Gem Society’s free guide to gemstone identification. Join our weekly newsletter & get a free copy of the Gem ID Checklist!