Maine Tourmaline Mines

Maine Tourmaline Mines: A Gem Hunter’s Paradise

Maine, a state known for its stunning landscapes and rich history, is also a treasure trove for mineral enthusiasts, particularly those seeking the vibrant and versatile gemstone, tourmaline. With its diverse geological formations and numerous pegmatite deposits, Maine has attracted gem hunters and collectors from around the world for centuries. This article will explore some of the most notable tourmaline mines in the state, showcasing the breathtaking beauty and variety of the gems they have produced.

Pala California is another important gem Tourmaline occurrence

Maine’s Tourmaline Legacy: A Geological Journey

Maine, a state renowned for its rugged beauty and rich history, has also played a significant role in the global gemstone industry. One of its most prized minerals is tourmaline, a versatile gem known for its vibrant colors and unique properties.

This article will examine the history and geology of tourmaline mining in Maine, exploring the factors that have made the state a renowned source of this precious stone.

Geological Formation of Tourmaline in Maine

Tourmaline is a complex silicate mineral that forms in pegmatite veins, which are intrusive igneous rocks. These veins often occur in association with granite, a common rock type in Maine. The specific conditions necessary for tourmaline formation include high temperatures and pressures, as well as the presence of certain elements such as boron, aluminum, and iron.

Maine’s geological history has provided an ideal environment for the formation of tourmaline-bearing pegmatites. The state has a long history of volcanic activity, which has resulted in the formation of granite and other igneous rocks. Over millions of years, these rocks have been subject to various geological processes, including erosion, weathering, and metamorphism, which have created the conditions necessary for the formation of pegmatite veins.

The Discovery and Early Mining of Tourmaline in Maine

The discovery of tourmaline in Maine dates back to the early 19th century. As settlers began to explore the state’s vast wilderness, they encountered unusual-looking stones that were later identified as tourmaline. The gem’s striking colors and unique properties quickly captured the attention of collectors and jewelers.

Early tourmaline mining in Maine was primarily a small-scale operation. Miners would prospect for pegmatite veins and extract the tourmaline-bearing material using simple tools. The gems were then cut and polished by local artisans, who sold them to jewelers and collectors.

The Growth of the Maine Tourmaline Industry

Over time, the Maine tourmaline industry  grew in size and sophistication. As demand for the gem increased, larger-scale mining operations were established, and more advanced techniques were developed for extracting and processing tourmaline.

The state’s reputation as a source of high-quality tourmaline spread throughout the world, attracting collectors and jewelers from far and wide.

One of the most significant factors contributing to the growth of the tourmaline industry in Maine was the discovery of Mount Mica, a world-famous pegmatite deposit near Paris, Maine.

This mine has produced some of the finest tourmaline specimens ever found, including the coveted “watermelon tourmaline” with its pink center and green rind.

Maine’s Tourmaline Legacy

Today, Maine continues to be a significant source of tourmaline. While the state’s mining industry may not be as large as it was in the past, it remains a vital part of the local economy. Tourmaline mining has not only contributed to the state’s economic development but has also helped to preserve its unique geological heritage.

The history and geology of tourmaline mining in Maine offer a fascinating glimpse into the state’s natural resources and its role in the global gemstone industry. As long as there is a demand for this beautiful and versatile gem, Maine’s tourmaline mines will continue to be a source of fascination and wonder for generations to come.

Mount Mica: A Historic Gem Site

One of the oldest and most famous gem pegmatites in the United States, Mount Mica is located near Paris, Maine. Discovered in the 1820s, this iconic mine has been a significant source of tourmaline for nearly two centuries. Renowned for its high-quality specimens, Mount Mica has produced a wide range of Maine tourmaline varieties, including the coveted watermelon tourmaline, which features a pink center surrounded by a green rind. Other notable tourmaline colors found at Mount Mica include blue, green, and pink.

Newry: Home to Spectacular Maine Tourmaline

The Newry area, particularly the Dunton Mine, is famous for producing some of the most spectacular tourmaline specimens in Maine. These mines have yielded exceptional examples of elbaite, the most common variety of tourmaline, showcasing a vibrant array of colors such as pink, green, blue, and multicolored crystals. The Dunton Mine is especially renowned for its large, high-quality Maine tourmaline crystals, often with intricate zoning patterns and excellent clarity.

Liddicoatite: A Rare and Beautiful Gem

While less common than elbaite, liddicoatite tourmaline can also be found in Maine. This variety is known for its complex and often colorful zoned crystals, making it a highly sought-after gem among collectors. Liddicoatite specimens from Maine often exhibit a kaleidoscope of colors, including shades of pink, green, blue, and yellow.

Oxford County: A MaineTourmaline Hotspot

Oxford County, located in western Maine, is home to several towns where tourmaline has been found in various pegmatite deposits. Buckfield, Hebron, and Greenwood are just a few examples of places where gem hunters can explore for tourmaline. These areas have produced a diverse range of elbaite colors, including pink, green, blue, and multicolored crystals. In addition to elbaite, black tourmaline (schorl) is also commonly found in the pegmatites of Oxford County.

The Maine Tourmaline Pegmatite Belt: A Gem Hunter’s Dream

The locations mentioned above are part of the larger pegmatite belt in western Maine, which is renowned for its mineral diversity and abundance. This geological region has been a source of countless gemstones, including Maine tourmaline, garnet, topaz, and many others. The pegmatites in Maine provide a unique environment for the formation of these valuable minerals, making the state a popular destination for both amateur and professional gem hunters.

Maine’s tourmaline mines offer a fascinating glimpse into the geological history of the region and the beauty of the natural world. From the historic Mount Mica to the spectacular finds in Newry and Oxford County, these locations have produced some of the most stunning tourmaline specimens in the world. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or simply appreciate the beauty of gemstones, Maine tourmaline mines are a must-visit destination for any mineral enthusiast.

Maine offers numerous areas chances to find Tourmaline, Aquamarine and other gems.

1. Moxie Mine: Located in Newry, Maine, Moxie Mine is a popular destination for mineral collectors. This historic mining site offers a variety of minerals, including tourmaline. Visitors can explore the mine’s tunnels and sift through tailings in search of their own tourmaline specimens.

2. Maine Gem Mine: Situated in Bethel, Maine, Maine Gem Mine is a family-friendly attraction that provides opportunities for gemstone hunting. The mine offers guided tours and a sluicing area where visitors can pan for a variety of gems, including tourmaline.

3. Crystal Mountain: This privately owned mine in Rumford, Maine, allows visitors to search for a variety of minerals, including tourmaline. Crystal Mountain offers guided tours and a sluicing area where you can try your luck at finding tourmaline and other gemstones.

4. Blue Hill Mining Company: Located in Blue Hill, Maine, Blue Hill Mining Company is a popular destination for mineral collectors. The company offers guided tours of its mine and a sluicing area where visitors can pan for a variety of gems, including tourmaline.

5. Maine Mineral and Gem Show: While not a dig site, the Maine Mineral and Gem Show, held annually in Augusta, Maine, is a great place to learn about tourmaline and other gemstones. The show features vendors from around the world selling a variety of minerals and gemstones, including tourmaline.

Tourmaline Discoveries in Maine

The first major tourmaline discovery in Maine occurred in 1820 at Mount Mica in Paris. The famous story of the discovery by two boys exploring the local countryside was related by Augustus Hamlin in his 1895 book entitled “The History of Mount Mica.” A quarry that was opened at the site has intermittently produced gem tourmaline and other interesting minerals up to the present day. The Hamlin Necklace, containing fine tourmalines of various colors from this quarry, can be seen in the Harvard University Mineralogical Museum.

Many other tourmaline deposits have been found in Maine over the years. Sharp crystals of black tourmaline are widespread in pegmatites of Oxford, Androscoggin, Sagadahoc, and Cumberland Counties. The colored crystals occur mainly in Oxford County and the Auburn-Poland area. It is curious that the best gem-producing localities lie on a straight line extending southeastward through this part of the state.

In 1972 a spectacular series of large tourmaline pockets was opened at the Dunton Mine in Newry. Hundreds of pounds of red and green crystals were found, including the “Jolly Green Giant,” a 10-inch crystal now in the collection of the National Museum of Natural History in Washington, D.C.

The State of Maine tourmaline necklace was designed using Newry gems and presented to the State in 1975 by the Maine Retail Jewelers Association. (The chain of this necklace was made from gold nuggets panned from the Swift River in Byron.)

Large discoveries of gem tourmaline like those mentioned above are rare indeed, but mineral collectors still make occasional finds of nice crystals in the rock piles around pegmatite quarries. Pieces of pink, green, blue, or watermelon tourmaline can be found at places such as the Dunton Mine, Mt. Mica, or Black Mountain (Rumford). Collecting is usually allowed at these localities for a small fee. Cut tourmaline gems and crystal specimens are displayed in museums and can be purchased from jewelers or mineral dealers.

Tips for Tourmaline Hunting in Maine:

• Research: Before heading out to a dig site, do your research to learn about the types of tourmaline that can be found in the area and any specific regulations or guidelines that may apply.
• Proper Equipment: Bring the necessary equipment, including a shovel, a pickaxe, a geologist’s hammer, safety glasses, and a sturdy pair of boots.
• Safety First: Always prioritize safety when exploring mines or dig sites. Be aware of your surroundings and follow any safety guidelines provided by the site’s operators.
• Respect the Environment: Leave the dig site as you found it. Avoid disturbing the natural environment and dispose of any waste properly.

The video is at Mt Mica