Colemanite forms in evaporite deposits together with other borates, and is one of the more stable of borate minerals. It is pyroelectric, and develops an electrical charge during a change of temperature. The crystal symmetry of prismatic monoclinic minerals would scientifically disqualify them from being pyroelectric, since pyroelectricity is directly related to crystal symmetry. This mineral is therefore regarded as a scientific oddity, as no satisfactory explanation has been given to how Colemanite is pyroelectric.
Colemanite was named after William T. Coleman, a mine owner who lived in San Francisco.