By Chisom Ibemere
Achroite is a rare and colourless variety of tourmaline. It was first described in 1914 by mineralogist Waldemar T. Schaller. Its name is derived from the Greek word “akros,” which means “topmost.” and named so because of its colourless to white appearance, which is considered the lightest colour in the tourmaline group.
Achroite is seen in many parts of the world which include Brazil, Madagascar, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Russia, and the United States. Achroite usually occurs in pegmatites and metamorphic rocks.
Achroite is a type of tourmaline; it has a hardness of 7-7.5 on the Mohs scale. It is known for its colourless to white appearance with a vitreous lustre. It is also considered a transparent to translucent mineral.
Achroite is believed to be a collector’s mineral, and it is not popular in the jewellery industry because of its colourless to white appearance. It is believed to be a collector’s mineral and is prized by mineral collectors and enthusiasts.
Achroite occurs in many locations worldwide, including Brazil, Madagascar, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Russia, and the United States. It is typically found in pegmatite and metamorphic rocks.
Achroite is a rare and colourless mineral, and its value is placed on its size, quality, and its rarity. It is highly valued and prized by collectors. Its cost may range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars depending on the size, quality, and geographical origin of the specimen.