Crystal Encyclopedia

Choose a letter, pick a stone from the list, and read about it: what it is made of, how hard it is, what it looks like, what it has traditionally been said to do, and how to look after it.

450 minerals

Tunellite

The Pearly Cord-Cutter of Light

About the stone

Tunellite crystal
Photo: Chris857, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Discovered near Boron, CA in 1915 & only found there and in Turkey. It is a rare borate mineral that crystallizes in the monoclinic system as aggregates of slender prisms and nodules with irregular surfaces. Typically found as layered crystals which cleave easily, exhibiting a pearly luster. Translucent to transparent, it may be clear, grayish or light brown.

Mineral data

  • Chemical composition: Tunellite is a rare hydrated strontium borate mineral with the approximate formula SrB6O9(OH)2.3H2O, crystallizing in the monoclinic system.
  • Hardness: Soft, about 3.5 on the Mohs scale.
  • Color: Clear, grayish or light brown, translucent to transparent, with a pearly luster.

Metaphysical data

Tunellite, a rare pearly borate from California and Turkey, has been utilized in metaphysical practices to bring clear vision, deepen meditation and release unwanted energetic cords.

Clarifying and Cleansing Energy

  • Tunellite is thought to fill the body with white light, bringing about a gentle shift of consciousness.
  • It is believed to bring clear vision and the ability to see things as they truly are, cutting through confusion.

Emotional Healing

  • Tunellite is said to remove cords connected to you from another person, placed there by that other person, even without your focus and intent.
  • By releasing these ties, it is thought to restore a sense of personal freedom and emotional space.

Harmonizing Energy Centers

  • Tunellite is associated with the heart and crown chakras, connecting open-hearted love with higher spiritual awareness.
  • It is believed to induce deep meditation, easing the energy centers into quiet and lasting balance.

Zodiac Associations

  • Tunellite is linked to the zodiac sign Libra, the balanced scales, whose seeking of harmony and fairness the stone is said to reflect.
  • It is said to vibrate to the number 1 in numerology, a number of new beginnings, independence and clear intention.

Spiritual Growth

  • Tunellite is often used in meditation to bring about a shift of consciousness and a deeper sense of inner stillness.
  • Its rarity, found only near Boron in California and in Turkey, makes it a treasured and special companion for dedicated practitioners.

Physical Healing

  • Tunellite is not a substitute for professional medical advice, but it is traditionally regarded as deeply healing to the heart and lungs on a physical and spiritual level.
  • It is also said to support the thyroid, fight infection and be helpful for osteoarthritis; these are traditional beliefs that complement, never replace, qualified care.

Care and handling

Tunellite is soft and cleaves easily into layers, so handle it very gently and protect it from knocks. As a borate it is slightly water-soluble, so avoid soaking and wet cleaning; wipe only with a soft, dry cloth or a soft brush. Avoid heat, steam, ultrasonic cleaners and harsh chemicals. Store it in a padded container away from humidity and harder stones.

Individual experiences with Tunellite vary, and its effects are personal. Approach this rare stone with mindful gentleness and let it support the clarity you are seeking.