Morganite, a captivating gemstone displaying delicate shades of pink to orange-peach, belongs to the esteemed beryl family. While not a traditional birthstone, it is recognized as a natural birthstone for those born in mid-autumn. Its increasing popularity in contemporary jewelry is matched by a rich history and a symbolism centered around love, compassion, and emotional healing. This article will delve into the history, geological origins, gemological properties, and cultural significance of morganite, providing a comprehensive overview of this enchanting gem.
History and Lore
The story of morganite begins in 1910 with its discovery in Madagascar. Shortly after its unearthing, the gemstone was named in honor of J.P. Morgan, the renowned American banker and gem collector. This tribute came at the suggestion of George Kunz, a prominent gemologist at Tiffany & Co., recognizing Morgan’s significant contributions to the gem industry and his personal passion for gemstones.
Prior to its formal naming, the beryl family had already established a place in history through other members like emerald (green beryl) and aquamarine (blue beryl). The discovery of this pink variety added a new dimension to the beryl’s allure. Early accounts suggest that morganite’s appeal lay in its gentle beauty and romantic connotations.
Interestingly, the name “El Dorado,” often associated with a lost city of gold, actually originated from an Incan settlement in Peru abundant with emeralds, a related beryl. This historical connection highlights the long-standing human fascination with beryl gemstones and their perceived value.
In more recent times, a particularly large morganite specimen, dubbed “The Rose of Maine,” was discovered in Buckfield, Maine, in 1989. Weighing over 50 pounds with its matrix, and measuring 23 cm long and 30 cm across, this discovery brought renewed attention to the potential for morganite finds within the United States, though such occurrences remain rare. Before 2011, morganite was relatively unknown in many jewelry stores, but its popularity has steadily increased since then.
Geological Formation and Sources
Morganite, like other beryls, forms deep within the Earth under conditions of high temperature and pressure. The formation process requires the presence of beryllium and aluminum, elements that don’t typically occur together. These elements combine during the creation of mountain ranges, where continental plates collide, forcing chromium-bearing rocks into contact with beryllium-rich formations. This unique geological event is crucial for the crystallization of beryl, including morganite.
While initially discovered in Madagascar, morganite is now found in various locations around the world. Significant deposits exist in Minas Gerais, Brazil, and substantial quantities are also sourced from Afghanistan and southern Africa. Within the United States, morganite has been found in Maine and California, but these occurrences are limited to smaller quantities.
Gemological Properties
Morganite’s chemical composition is Be3Al2Si6O18, classifying it as a beryl. It exhibits a refractive index ranging from 1.57 to 1.58 and a birefringence of 0.0040–0.0070. Its specific gravity is 2.76, indicating its density relative to water.
On the Mohs hardness scale, morganite registers between 7.5 and 8, making it a relatively durable gemstone suitable for various jewelry applications. This hardness means it is resistant to scratching from everyday wear, but still requires careful handling to avoid damage.
The most desirable morganite gemstones display a vivid pink hue. Clarity is also a crucial factor, with minimal inclusions enhancing the stone’s brilliance. Morganite’s vitreous luster contributes to its overall sparkle and appeal.
Due to its relative scarcity, particularly for high-quality specimens with deep pink coloration, morganite tends to be among the more expensive beryl gemstones per carat.
Here's a table summarizing key gemological properties:
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | Be3Al2Si6O18 |
| Refractive Index | 1.57 - 1.58 |
| Birefringence | 0.0040-0.0070 |
| Specific Gravity | 2.76 |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 7.5 - 8 |
| Luster | Vitreous |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Morganite is often associated with love, compassion, and emotional healing. It is believed to promote gentle energy and encourage emotional openness. Some sources connect morganite to Astarte, the Phoenician Goddess of Fertility, Love, and War, suggesting its use in fostering faithful and loving relationships.
Within the context of natural birthstones, pink morganite is linked to those born in mid-autumn (October 22 – November 20), representing energy, courage, passion, and love.
For individuals born under the sign of Taurus, morganite is thought to temper a tendency towards impulsiveness, while for Cancers, it is believed to aid in self-awareness and emotional clarity.
Care and Cleaning
Given its hardness of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale, morganite is reasonably durable, but still requires careful handling. It is susceptible to scratching from harder materials and can be chipped with a sharp blow.
Cleaning morganite jewelry can be done with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, and steam cleaners, as these can potentially damage the gemstone. Rinsing thoroughly and drying with a soft cloth will help maintain its brilliance. Regular cleaning will remove dirt and oils, preserving the gemstone’s captivating color and luster.
Conclusion
Morganite, the enchanting pink beryl, has evolved from a relatively obscure gemstone discovered in Madagascar to a sought-after addition to modern jewelry collections. Its captivating color, coupled with its symbolism of love and emotional healing, has contributed to its growing popularity. While not a traditional birthstone, its association with mid-autumn births and its metaphysical properties further enhance its appeal. Understanding its geological origins, gemological characteristics, and proper care ensures that this beautiful gemstone can be cherished for generations to come.