Morganite is the pink to orange-pink variety of beryl, a mineral that includes emerald and aquamarine.

ABOUT MORGANITE

Morganite’s subtle color is caused by traces of manganese. Because morganite has distinct pleochroism—pale pink and a deeper bluish pink—it’s necessary to orient the rough carefully for fashioning. Strong color in Morganite is rare, and gems usually have to be large to achieve the finest color.

SALMON COLOR

Untreated morganite often has a strong orange color component, creating a salmon color.

SIZE

Morganite crystals can be large, with specimens from Brazil weighing over 10 kilograms.

FINANCE

Morganite was named after J.P. Morgan, one of the greatest financiers in history.

FACTS

• Mineral: Beryl
  
• Chemical composition: Be3Al2Si6O18
  
• Color: Pink to orange-pink
  
• Refractive index: 1.583 to 1.590
  
• Birefringence: 0.007 to 0.008
  
• Specific gravity:   2.80 to 2.91
  
• Mohs hardness: 7.5 to 8

QUALITY FACTORS

Morganite can be pink, purplish pink, or orangy pink; often light in tone.

COLOR

Although commonly light in tone, top-quality material is a strong pink.

CLARITY

Faceted morganite, in light and stronger colors, usually has no eye-visible inclusions.

CUT

Light-colored crystals might be cut a little deep to intensify the color.

CARAT WEIGHT

Morganite comes in a variety of sizes, including large faceted gems and designer cuts.