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Characteristics
Morganite is the pink form of beryl, as emerald is the green version and aquamarine the blue. Beryl is made up of beryllium aluminum silicate that also contains other trace minerals, thus determining the crystal's color variants. The presence of manganese gives the pink color of morganite. Morganite ranges in color from pale pink to salmon. It has a hardness rating of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale of hardness, which makes it an exceptional stone for use in jewelry.
History
Discovered in the early 1900s in California, morganite was given its name by George Kunz, a gem buyer for Tiffany and Company. Kunz named it after J. P. Morgan, the great bank tycoon, who was a renowned gem collector in his own right.
Sources
Although discovered in California, morganite can also be found in Brazil, Madagascar, Afghanistan, Russia and Africa. Still, it is a relatively rare gem. The largest morganite found was close to 600 carats and is now in the British Museum's collection.
Healing Properties
Morganite is thought to alleviate lung and other respiratory disorders, as well as sending much-needed oxygen to the body's cells. It is also cleansing for the heart.
Metaphysical Properties
Like other pink stones, such as rose quartz, morganite brings about unconditional love, but on a much gentler wave. It is thought to enhance communication, especially with angels and other spirit guides. Place it on the heart chakra to cleanse and detoxify.