The pink variety of beryl is named after the farrious American banker and gem enthusiast John Pierpont Morgan. Appearance The color is usually quite a soft pink without any overtones. The pleochroism is not noticeable. it has glassy luster, like other beryls. The stones are usually fairly free of inclusions. Sometimes, however, irregular liquid and gaseous inclusions, of very uneven shape, are just viaible. The step out is most frequently used. Morganite is not a common gem, but specimens are often medium to large. As always with light-colored stones, the more richly colored specimens are in greater demand.
Distinctive features Morganite is not easily distinguished from kunzite, pink topaz, and the more attractively colored pink tourmalines, except, of course, by its physical characteristics; but it is quite readily distinguished from dull pink tourmalines. It is less lustrous than pink sapphire and often a different color. in general, pink stones, unless of a distinctive shade, are not easy to identify visually. On the other hand, establishment of the stone’s density will narrow the field and will usually be sufficient for positive identification.
Occurrence Morganite is mainly found in pegmatites in the United States (California), Brazil, and Madagascar.
Value Richly colored stones of at least a few carats are among the more valuable secondary gems. The price falls a lot for more weakly colored specimens.
Simulants and synthetics Not being widely known, Morganite is not as a rule imitated, nor is it produced synthetically.
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