Morganite, a stunning member of the beryl family, is renowned for its captivating hues, ranging from delicate pinks to warm peaches. This gemstone's colour variations are not only a feast for the eyes but also a fascinating study in mineralogy. Understanding where these colours come from provides deeper appreciation for this gem's natural beauty.

The Chemistry Behind Morganite's Colours

Morganite's enchanting colours are primarily due to the presence of manganese (Mn) within the beryl structure. The specific hues of morganite can vary depending on the concentration and distribution of manganese and other trace elements within the crystal lattice.

Pink Morganite

The most sought-after colour of morganite is pink. This hue is primarily caused by the presence of manganese ions (Mn²⁺) within the crystal structure. Pink morganite can range from a soft baby pink to a more intense rose hue. The finest pink morganites, which are extremely rare, command the highest prices due to their delicate and romantic aura.

Peach and Salmon Morganite

Peach and salmon hues in morganite are also attributed to manganese, but the presence of additional trace elements like iron can influence these warmer tones. These colours are often found in unheated morganite, which some collectors prefer for its natural beauty. The peachy tones are particularly popular for their unique and soothing appearance.

Other Colour Variations

Morganite can also exhibit a range of other hues, including:

• Yellowish: Caused by the presence of iron impurities.

• Orangey: A combination of manganese and iron, giving a warm, vibrant tone.

• Reddish: Higher concentrations of manganese can lead to more intense, reddish hues.

• Purplish and Violet: Rare and often sought after, these hues are due to specific trace element combinations within the crystal.

Pleochroism in Morganite

Morganite is pleochroic, meaning it can show different colours or shades when viewed from different angles. This optical phenomenon occurs because the gemstone absorbs light differently along different crystallographic axes. For instance, a morganite gemstone may appear more pink when viewed down its crystallographic axis, adding to its visual complexity and allure.

Heat Treatment and Colour Enhancement

To enhance the pink hues, some morganite stones undergo heat treatment. This process can remove the yellowish or orangey components, resulting in a purer pink colour. While treated morganites are beautiful, natural, untreated stones are often more valued by collectors for their authenticity and natural charm.

Geological Origins and Colour Sources

Morganite is found in several locations worldwide, each contributing to the stone's unique colour characteristics:

• Brazil: Known for producing fine crystals with a range of pink to peach hues.

• Madagascar: One of the earliest sources, offering high-quality pink and peach morganites.

• Afghanistan, Mozambique, Namibia, and the United States: These regions also produce notable morganite specimens, each with distinctive colour profiles influenced by local geological conditions.

Morganite at GemCollector

At GemCollector, we pride ourselves on offering an exquisite selection of genuine, high-quality morganite gemstones. As the world's largest loose gem store, we have unparalleled access to some of the finest morganite specimens from around the globe. Our expert gemologists carefully select each stone, ensuring that only the best make it to our collection.

During our daily live shows from 6-11pm, hosted by our knowledgeable presenters Jim and Emily, you can explore our stunning array of morganite gems. These often include one-of-a-kind pieces and the cream of the crop from each parcel, showcasing the true beauty and diversity of this captivating gemstone.

Morganite's spectrum of colours, from soft pinks to warm peaches, is a testament to the intricate interplay of trace elements within its crystal structure. Whether you prefer the natural, unheated peach tones or the enhanced, vibrant pinks, morganite offers a unique and elegant addition to any jewellery collection. You can shop our Morganite selection to find your next gem.