06/17/2026
Black tourmaline or schorl fun facts:
1. This stone naturally forms in this 3-sided triangular cross-section shape compared to other common minerals that form 4 or 6 sides.
2. Because of its unique asymmetrical 3-sided structure, it naturally creates an electrical charge. It is pyroelectric (generates electricity when heated) and piezoelectric (generates a charge when pressed or rubbed).
3. Heating or rubbing the crystal polarizes its ends, creating an electric field. Light particles, such as dust, ash, and allergens, are drawn to the charge and cling to the stone.
4. In the 17th century, Dutch voyagers called it the "ashentrekker" (ash puller). They heat the stones to pull ash out of their to***co pipes because the pyroelectric charge attracted the light ash.
