There is so much to say about this mineral I don't know where to begin. It's one of the most powerful stones on the planet and has a long history among many cultures. It's best known as a grounding and protecting stone for doing ritual work. Traditionally it was used to expose a source of trouble or an offender, and to indicate a good direction in which to move to safety. According to Wikipedia, the name “Schorl” was in use prior to 1400 because a village known today as Zschorlau (in Saxony, Germany) was then named “Schorl” This village had a nearby tin mine where, in addition to Cassiterite, Black Tourmaline was found. But this is not just a European mineral, it is found worldwide. Native American and African shamans included Black Tourmaline in rituals as protection against negative spells or curses. To this day Black Tourmaline is still revered as a premier talisman of protection and guidance. The energy in Black Tourmaline is what sets it apart from all the rest. It's known as the "Electric Stone" because of the high electrical current constantly moving through it. It has been scientifically proven that no matter how small tourmaline is ground or crushed, it is still capable of conveying an electric current.This energy dispels negative energy so it's a great stone to have in the home, have on an altar, carry in a medicine bag or gift to someone just coming out of a traumatic experience. Placing 4 stones on each corner of your bed will help protect against nightmares and help you get a better night sleep so you wake feeling focused and energized. *note- These come in many different sizes and shapes. You'll either get 1 large piece or 2 smaller pieces. These are AAA grade specimens from Saxony Germany, deeply striated. You will find some of my homemade "Velvet Lotus Sacred Smudge" incense cones in your package. They are made with all natural organic white sage, pinon wood essential oil and benzoin gum. They have been charged under the Full Flower Moon in a Sacred Crystal Grid and infused with blessings. If you would like to Smudge your items, simply light the tip of the cone, wait until it turns red then blow it out. Place it on a fireproof plate and direct the smoke so it gently encircles the items you wish to have Smudged. Feel free to use your own intentions and blessings and make sure the cone is completely extinguished before leaving the room. From my heart to yours. ? This listing is for one (1) Large Piece of AAA Grade Raw Black Tourmaline or two (2) Smaller Pieces. Everything from my shop has been charged under the full moon and smudged with white sage on my personal altar. I have developed a process in cleansing crystals so you can be confident that it will be delivered to you with the purest of energy and ready for your own personal programming and adorning. I anoint each stone with a sacred oil blend before packing so there may be a trace amount still on your crystal when you receive it. It won't harm the crystal and can be easily removed with a soft cloth if you choose. Some crystals fade in the sun so be careful and make sure yours does not. Please contact me on overseas shipping. Love and Light! ? Seja *The Velvet Lotus does not intend for any information given to replace the care of qualified medical professionals, and no statements made should be used in place of medical care to diagnose or treat any medical condition. *