1/2 Lbs. Black Tourmaline.

It is believed by many who live with crystals that certain stones are here for the express purpose of guiding us into new dimensions of being. Although I believe that all crystals can help us in this way, I do have a special appreciation for members of the tourmaline family. In their natural state tourmalines are characterized by parallel ridges (or striations) which run the length of the crystal. When heated a tourmaline crystal develops opposing electrical charges at opposite ends. I don't recommend doing this, but the phenomenon illustrates the ability of this stone to conduct electricity. The effect of this energy on us can be very powerful. Tourmaline can help to break up energy blockages which cause stress and confusion, and bring about calmness and clarity. Tourmaline aids in clarity by helping us to move beyond limited ways of thinking in order to embrace a greatly expanded concept of reality. It teaches us that we are light beings in physical form, and helps us to experience the physical and spiritual worlds as one. When we experience ourselves as in this way we can have a clear sense of our purpose in existence. Although all forms of tourmaline have the above characteristics, each also has a specific focus according to color. Some of these are described below. (More detailed descriptions will soon be available at Beyond the Rainbow. Black Tourmaline (Schorl)

Black tourmaline's particular function is to repel negative energy. This can refer both to external energies or inner emotions, such as anger, resentment, or jealousy. It is a very good stone to carry when you're experiencing any kind of stress Black tourmaline, also known as schorl, is associated with the root or base chakra, and is excellent for grouding excess energy. It is a well known as a purifying stone that deflects and transforms negative energy, and thus is very protective. It can transform and remove negativity from an individual or an environment. It is often used as an aura cleanser, and can help one attain higher levels of awareness. Black tourmaline is also used for repelling and protecting one from black magick, and is often said to return the negative spell to the sender. Some claim that black tourmaline deflects all kinds of energy, but my personal experience is that it's not so. It is possible that the black tourmaline's effect of grounding excess energy gives this impression. Black tourmaline has also been used to deflect radiation energy from tv's and computer monitors. Emotionally, black tourmaline is excellent for dispelling fears, obsessions, and neuroses, bringing emotional stability. Physically, black tourmaline can strengthen the immune system, help with heart disease, arthritis, and gout.