When it comes to selecting the perfect engagement ring or bespoke jewellery piece, more and more modern brides are turning away from traditional white diamonds and embracing coloured gemstones with unique beauty and meaning. One such gem rising in popularity is morganite—a delicate pink to peach member of the beryl family, prized for its romantic hue and symbolism of unconditional love.
A Modern Favourite with Historic Roots
Discovered in Madagascar in the early 20th century, morganite was originally known as “pink beryl” until 1911, when it was renamed in honour of American financier and gem collector J.P. Morgan by renowned gemologist George F. Kunz of Tiffany & Co. Its soft pastel hues quickly captivated the jewellery world, and today, morganite continues to enchant couples searching for meaningful engagement stones.
🕊️ According to the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), morganite is cherished for its gentle pink tone, which is associated with divine love, emotional healing, and compassion.
Origins and Formation: Nature’s Blush-Toned Treasure
Morganite forms in pegmatites, a type of igneous rock that also produces emerald and aquamarine—its green and blue beryl cousins. Major sources include Brazil, Madagascar, Afghanistan, and Mozambique, where the mineral is often found in large, well-formed crystals ideal for faceting.
The finest morganite displays a pure pink hue, but most stones range from soft peach to a salmon-pink colour. Unlike some gemstones, the subtle colouring of morganite is largely due to trace amounts of manganese. Some stones are heat-treated to remove yellow tones and enhance the pink, a stable and accepted practice in the gem industry.
Symbolism of Love and Feminine Energy
Morganite is often associated with the heart chakra, symbolising compassion, empathy, and emotional connection. As a gemstone of divine love, it’s considered ideal for engagement rings, anniversary gifts, or any piece meant to carry a deep emotional message.
Its gentle colouring also complements a wide range of skin tones, making it a flattering and versatile choice for everyday wear or statement pieces.
Morganite in Modern Jewellery Design
At Prins and Prins Diamonds, we celebrate the unique beauty of morganite by crafting bespoke pieces that highlight the gem’s soft radiance. Whether set in rose gold to enhance its peachy glow or paired with sparkling diamonds for added brilliance, morganite offers the perfect balance of romance and sophistication.
Morganite is an excellent centre stone for:
Engagement rings with vintage or modern settings
Cocktail rings with halo diamond surrounds
Earrings and pendants that embrace femininity
We source our gemstones ethically and meticulously, ensuring each piece reflects both luxury and conscious craftsmanship.
Caring for Morganite Jewellery
Morganite rates 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs hardness scale, which makes it suitable for daily wear, but care should still be taken to maintain its beauty. Here are a few care tips:
Avoid exposing your morganite jewellery to harsh chemicals or abrasives.
Clean gently with warm soapy water and a soft brush.
Store separately in a padded jewellery box to prevent scratching.
While not as hard as diamonds or sapphires, with proper care, morganite jewellery can last a lifetime.
Why Choose Morganite?
Choosing morganite means choosing a gem that embodies tenderness, uniqueness, and timeless love. Its rising popularity among brides speaks to a growing desire for personal expression in engagement and wedding jewellery.
At Prins and Prins, we help you create custom jewellery that captures your story, whether you’re proposing, commemorating a special moment, or simply celebrating your unique style.
Explore Morganite at Prins and Prins
Visit our showroom in Cape Town or browse our bespoke gemstone collections online to discover the magic of morganite. Our expert jewellers are ready to guide you through the process of designing your perfect ring or accessory.
💎 Contact us today to schedule a private consultation or learn more about our collection of rare and beautiful gemstones.
Sources:
Gemological Institute of America. (n.d.). Morganite. Retrieved from https://www.gia.edu/morganite
