Cyclosilicate
Aquamarine
Be₃Al₂Si₆O₁₈
Cyclosilicate
Morganite
Be₃Al₂Si₆O₁₈
About Morganite
Morganite is the pink to orange-pink variety of beryl, a mineral species that also includes emerald and aquamarine. Its delicate pastel colors are caused by trace amounts of manganese. Morganite is highly prized for its brilliant luster and exceptional clarity, often being far cleaner (fewer inclusions) than its cousin, the emerald.
Formation & Geology
Morganite forms in lithium-rich granite pegmatites. It is often found alongside other pegmatite minerals like tourmaline, spodumene, and other beryl varieties. Large, transparent crystals can form, sometimes reaching several kilograms in weight. The most significant deposits are in Brazil and Madagascar.
Physical Characteristics
Like all beryls, morganite has a hardness of 7.5 to 8, making it durable for jewelry. It has a vitreous luster and typically exhibits a high degree of transparency. While naturally occurring morganite can have a yellowish or orangey tint, it is frequently heat-treated to enhance its pure pink 'baby pink' color, which is the most preferred in the market.
Historical Significance
Morganite was first discovered in Madagascar in 1910. It was named by George F. Kunz, the chief gemologist at Tiffany & Co., in honor of the financier and gem collector J.P. Morgan, for his significant contributions to the American Museum of Natural History. It has recently surged in popularity as an alternative to diamonds in engagement rings.
The "Pink Emerald" Controversy
Marketing morganite as "Pink Emerald" is a controversial trade practice. While both are varieties of the mineral beryl, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) in the USA does not recognize "Pink Emerald" as a valid name. Emerald is by definition green beryl. Morganite is the correct and distinct name for the pink-to-orange variety colored by manganese.
Colors & Varieties
Pink, peach, salmon, pale orange
Key Properties
- Pink/Peach beryl variety
- High transparency and clarity
- Pleochroic (pale pink/bluish pink)
- Vitreous luster
- Hexagonal crystal structure
- Manganese chromophore
Uses & Applications
- Fine jewelry (especially engagement rings)
- Collector specimens
- Ornamental carvings
Where to Find
- Brazil (Minas Gerais) - major source
- Madagascar
- Afghanistan
- Mozambique
- Namibia
- United States (California, Maine)
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Morganite get cloudy?
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Morganite has a relatively low refractive index, which means it doesn't sparkle as aggressively as diamond or sapphire. Dirt, oil, and lotion can build up on the back of the stone quickly, making it look dull or cloudy. Frequent cleaning is required to keep it looking bright.
Will my Morganite fade?
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Some morganite, especially material that has been irradiated to enhance its orange/peach tones, can fade if exposed to intense sunlight for long periods. However, natural heat-treated pink stones are generally color stable.
What is the hardness of Morganite?
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Morganite has a hardness of 7.5 - 8 on the Mohs scale.
Where is Morganite found?
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Morganite is primarily found in Brazil (Minas Gerais) - major source, Madagascar, Afghanistan.
What color is Morganite?
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Morganite typically occurs in pink, peach, salmon, pale orange.