tourmalin

A geologist examines a tourmalin crystal in the field.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A mineral: "tourmalin" (also spelled tourmaline) refers to a crystalline boron silicate mineral that occurs in a wide variety of colors, often used as a gemstone. It is valued for its piezoelectric and pyroelectric properties.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The jeweler examined the tourmalin under a magnifying glass. (The jeweler looked at the mineral specimen closely.)
  • She wore a necklace with a green tourmalin pendant. (She wore jewelry featuring this gemstone.)

Advanced Usage

• "tourmalin crystal": a naturally occurring crystal of tourmalin, often used in scientific instruments.
  • The tourmalin crystal was used to generate an electric charge. (The crystal's piezoelectric property was utilized.)

Variants and Related Words

• Tourmaline (n): the more common spelling of the same mineral.

  • Tourmaline is found in many colors, including pink, blue, and black. (The mineral occurs in a variety of hues.)

• Tourmalinized (adj): containing or altered by tourmalin.

  • The rock was tourmalinized by hydrothermal activity. (The rock had been transformed by the presence of tourmalin.)

Synonyms

• Gemstone: a precious or semi-precious stone used in jewelry.
• Crystal: a solid material with a regular internal structure.

Related Idioms

• None commonly associated with "tourmalin" as it is a specialized term.