This note describes the study of five small, gem-quality crystals and crystal fragments of a brownish red to red tourmaline from a new locality near Chipata, Zambia. The mineralogical nature of these tourmalines is briefly discussed. X-ray diffraction indicates that these tourmalines belong to the schorl-dravite series. Refractive indices, birefringence, specific gravity, and other gemological properties are given, as well as comments on the inclusions. This material is very similar in appearance, gemological characteristics, and chemistry to the red tourmalines from Kenya.
This note describes the study of five small, gem-quality crystals and crystal fragments of a brownish red to red tourmaline from a new locality near Chipata, Zambia. The mineralogical nature of these tourmalines is briefly discussed. X-ray diffraction indicates that these tourmalines belong to the schorl-dravite series. Refractive indices, birefringence, specific gravity, and other gemological properties are given, as well as comments on the inclusions. This material is very similar in appearance, gemological characteristics, and chemistry to the red tourmalines from Kenya.
