How To Tell If Morganite Is Real?
Morganite, with its captivating pink hues ranging from soft peach to vibrant salmon, has surged in popularity as a choice for fine jewelry. However, as with any precious gem, distinguishing authentic morganite from imitations or synthetics is crucial for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
This guide, imbued with our commitment to sophisticated service and informed by the Greisdorf family’s legacy, aims to equip you with the knowledge to discern real morganite from imitations, ensuring your pieces are as genuine as the moments they commemorate.
Introduction to Morganite
Morganite is a variety of beryl, the same mineral family that includes emeralds and aquamarines. Its unique pink color, ranging from soft peach to vibrant salmon, is due to the presence of manganese. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, morganite is prized for its clarity and durability, making it an excellent choice for jewelry.
Visual Characteristics of Authentic Morganite
- Color Depth and Saturation: Genuine morganite displays a rich, even color distribution. Its natural hues should appear soft and warm, without the harsh, artificial tones seen in some synthetic stones.
- Clarity and Natural Inclusions: Authentic morganite can have inclusions but they often possess a high degree of clarity. The presence of minor natural inclusions can actually authenticate a morganite as natural rather than undermine its value.
- Pleochroism: Real morganite exhibits pleochroism, meaning it can show different colors or shades when viewed from different angles. This optical phenomenon is a hallmark of many beryl gemstones.
Testing for Authenticity
Refractive Index (RI)
The RI of genuine morganite ranges between 1.572 and 1.598. Jewelers use refractometers to measure this optical property, providing a non-destructive method to verify the gemstone's identity.
Specific Gravity (SG)
Morganite's specific gravity, an indicator of density, is approximately 2.80 to 2.90. This physical property can help differentiate morganite from similar-looking stones with higher or lower densities.
Hardness
With a Mohs scale rating of 7.5 to 8, morganite is relatively hard but not as hard as diamonds. This characteristic can be assessed through scratch testing against known materials.
Common Imitations
Glass and Plastic
Some imitations are made from colored glass or plastic. These materials often lack the hardness and refractive qualities of genuine morganite and can be identified by their overly uniform color and absence of natural inclusions.
Synthetic Quartz and Corundum
Lab-created quartz or corundum may be dyed to mimic morganite's pink tones. While they may closely resemble morganite in color, they differ in hardness, SG, and RI.
Cubic Zirconia (CZ)
CZ is another common substitute, offering brilliant sparkle but differing significantly in density and refractive index from morganite.
Certificates of Authenticity and Provenance
Purchasing morganite with a certificate of authenticity from reputable gemological labs, such as the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), can provide assurance of its natural origin and quality. Provenance, detailing the gemstone's source, can also add to its authenticity and value.
Care and Maintenance
Despite its durability, morganite requires proper care to maintain its luster and integrity:
- Avoid exposure to harsh chemicals and high temperatures, which can damage the stone or alter its color.
- Clean morganite using warm soapy water and a soft brush. Ultrasonic cleaners should be used with caution and only if the gemstone has no fractures or liquid inclusions.
- Store morganite jewelry separately to prevent scratches from harder gemstones.
Conclusion
Identifying genuine morganite involves a combination of visual inspection, physical and optical testing, and when available, certification. By understanding the inherent properties of morganite and being aware of common imitation techniques, enthusiasts can confidently select authentic pieces.
At Greis Jewelers, we offer an exquisite selection of morganite pieces, each vetted for authenticity and quality. Our knowledgeable staff is dedicated to guiding you through the selection process, ensuring your morganite jewelry not only meets but exceeds your expectations.