Pink Gemstones

Morganite is the pretty, peachy-pink variety of beryl, cousin to more familiar beryl varieties, emerald and aquamarine. Morganite's beautiful, feminine colors are a result of the presence of manganese and iron. After its 1910 discovery in Madagascar, the famous gemologist George F. Kunz proposed to name the gem in honor of financier and gem enthusiast J. P. Morgan. Morganite has many redeeming qualities, including good Mohs hardness, luster, and clarity. The two major sources are Brazil and Madagascar. Stones also come from Afghanistan, China, Mozambique, Namibia, Pakistan, Russia, and the United States. Quality morganite stones in large sizes remain relatively rare.