The presence of different chemicals during crystallisation has
provided Tourmaline with an array of spectacular colours. When a
deep, vivid green, they are often rich in chromium and are
sometimes named Chrome Tourmaline. Tourmaline was not identified
as a gem variety in its own right until 1703. With the unique
ability to attract particles, known as pyroelectricity, when
heated or rubbed, Tourmalines create an electrical charge and
for this reason non gem-quality specimens are used in electrical
devices. Tourmalines are found in various parts of the world,
California has been in operation since 1822 however, most on the
market today are from Brazil.