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Legend says that Beryl was once used to ward off demons and evil spirits and that
it can protect the wearer from dangers whilst traveling. Other legends also state
that Beryl can be used to bring about good luck, cheerfulness, energy, and eternal
youthfulness. It is also said to be effective at treating disorders of the heart
and spine.
Morganite is believed to insinuate and nurture feelings of love, and to increase
tenderness in a relationship. Morganite can enhance one's communications skills
and provide patience to help focus during times of stress. In addition to this,
Morganite is believed to provide and encourage relaxation, peace, and joy of life.
Physically, Morganite is believed to aid respiratory disorders and increase the
supply of oxygen to cells.
Availability:
Besides Aquamarine and Emerald, Morganite is probably the best-known variety of
the Beryl family, though its rarity stands in the way of it becoming a common jewelry
stone.
Sources:
Morganite was initially discovered in California in the Pala Pegmatites. There are
also known deposits in Afghanistan, Brazil, Madagascar, Mozambique, Namibia, Russia,
and the United States.
Evaluation:
Beryl is rated at 7.5 to 8 on Moh's Scale of Hardness and is a durable stone that
is ideal for all jewelry purposes. Beryl is colorless in pure form, but different elemental impurities give it a wide variety of available colors. The presence of
Manganese impurities account for Morganite's coloration, which can range from a
soft pink, to peach, to violet-pink.
Although the color of Morganite specimens are most usually pastel-like, its lushness
offers a unique color that is somewhat rare in pink colored gemstones. In addition
to its color, Morganite exhibits a dazzling brilliance that is not often displayed
by other varieties of Beryl.
When purchasing a Morganite, it is recommended that a larger stone is acquired because
larger sized specimens will display the best color. The quality of the cut is also
a decisive factor when considering the value as a good quality cut will enhance
the brilliance and brightness of Morganite.
Common Cuts:
Beryl has the ability to be cut
into a wide spectrum of many-faceted shapes. Beryls
are particularly well suited to rectangular or square cuts, as these bring out the
stone's transparency and color definition.
Routine Enhancements:
Morganite is commonly heat-treated to remove any unwanted yellow tones, and to produce
the more desired pure pink color.
Care & Cleaning:
Beryls can be cleaned
using warm
soapy water and a soft brush. Enzyme cleaners and
cleaning agents containing chlorine should be avoided because they can cause dermatitis
and allergic reactions. To reduce the dangers of thermal shock, Beryls should be
kept away from prolonged exposure to excessive heat.
Morganite jewelry should be stored in a fabric-lined
box away from other jewelry items so as to avoid damage / scratching.
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