Morganite

Gemstone: Morganite (Beryl) Birthstone Month: Beryl is not associated with any particular birthstone month. Zodiac: Beryl is associated with the zodiac signs Scorpio and Sagittarius. Morganite is associated with the zodiac sign of Libra. Chemical Symbol: Be3Al2Si6O18 Chemical Make-up: Beryl is scientifically classified as a Beryllium Aluminum Silicate. Presence of differing elements will account for the color it displays. Morganite owes its pink coloration to the presence of Manganese impurities. History & Lore: The origin of the name Beryl is thought to derive from the Sanskrit word 'veruliyam', an old term previously used for the gemstone Chrysoberyl. It is also believed to derive from the Greek Word 'beryllos' which means crystal, and was originally applied to all green gemstones but was later used exclusively for Beryl. Morganite found its name in 1911 when it drew the attention of one of the world's most esteemed gemstone experts, George Kunz of Tiffany & Co®. He named it in honor of millionaire banker and mineral collector John Pierport Morgan. The largest faceted Morganite is a 598.70 carat cushion-cut that originated in Madagascar. This fantastic example currently resides in the British Museum. It is documented that Pliny, a Roman scholar, used powdered Beryl to cure injuries relating to the eye.

Legend says that Beryl was once used to ward off demons and evil spirits and that it can protect the wearer from danger whilst traveling. Other legends also state that Beryl can be used to bring good luck, cheerfulness, energy, and eternal youthfulness. Beryl is also said to be effective at treating disorders of the heart and spine. Morganite is believed to insinuate and nurture feelings of love, and to increase tenderness in a relationship. Morganite can enhance one's communications skills and provide patience to help focus during times of stress. In addition to this, Morganite is believed to provide and encourage relaxation, peace, and joy of life. Physically, Morganite is believed to aid respiratory disorders and increase the supply of oxygen to cells. Availability: Besides Aquamarine and Emerald, Morganite is probably the best-known variety of the Beryl family, though its rarity stands in the way of it becoming a common jewelry stone. Sources: Morganite was initially discovered in California in the Pala Pegmatites. There are also known deposits in Afghanistan, Brazil, Madagascar, Mozambique, Namibia, Russia, and other United States. Evaluation: Beryl is rated at 7.5 to 8 on Moh's Scale of Hardness and is a durable stone that is ideal for all jewelry purposes. Beryl is colorless in pure form, but different elemental impurities give it a wide variety of colors. The presence of Manganese impurities account for Morganite's coloration, which can range from a soft pink, to peach, to violet-pink. Whilst the color of Morganite specimens are most usually pastel-like, its lushness offers a unique color that is somewhat rare in pink colored gemstones. In addition to its color, Morganite exhibits a dazzling brilliance that is not often displayed by other varieties of Beryl. When purchasing a Morganite, it is recommended that a larger stone is acquired because larger sized specimens will display the best coloration. The quality of the cut is also a decisive factor when evaluating value as a good quality cut will enhance the stone's brilliance and brightness. Common Cuts: Beryl has the ability to be cut into a wide spectrum of many-faceted shapes. Beryls are particularly well suited to rectangular or square cuts, as these bring out the stone's transparency and color definition. Routine Enhancements: Morganite is commonly heat-treated to remove any unwanted yellow tones, and to produce the more desired pure pink color. Care & Cleaning: Beryls can be cleaned using warm soapy water and a soft brush. Enzyme cleaners and cleaning agents containing chlorine should be avoided because they can cause dermatitis and allergic reactions. To reduce the dangers of thermal shock, Beryls should be kept away from prolonged exposure to excessive heat. Morganite jewelry should be stored in a fabric-lined box away from other jewelry items so as to avoid damage / scratching.