hexagonal Cyclosilicates
Morganite
Be3Al2(SiO3)6:Mn
Crystal Structure
#! Species: Morganite (Beryl)
#! System: Hexagonal (6/mmm)
#! Habit: Short prismatic to tabular, pink
hexagonal[6/mmm]:{10-10}@1.0 + {0001}@0.5 + {11-20}@0.2 | elongate(c:0.9)
hexagonal
6/mmm
{10-10} {0001} {11-20}
Quick Facts
Hardness
7.5
Specific Gravity
2.67
Refractive Index
1.577
Optical Character
Uniaxial -
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Open in PlaygroundPhysical Properties
Crystal Systemhexagonal
Hardness (Mohs)7.5
Specific Gravity2.67
CleavageImperfect basal
FractureConchoidal to uneven
LustreVitreous
Optical Properties
Refractive Index1.577
Birefringence0.005-0.009
Optical CharacterUniaxial -
Dispersion0.014
Pleochroismweak: Pale pink / Deeper pink (Subtle; requires well-saturated stone to observe)
FluorescenceWeak pink in some specimens
Colours
PinkPeachSalmonRoseLight pinkOrange-pink
Localities
BrazilMadagascarAfghanistanMozambiqueCalifornia (USA)Namibia
Common Inclusions
Liquid feathersGrowth tubesTwo-phase inclusionsMineral crystals
Known Treatments
Heat treatment (removes yellow, enhances pink)
Crystal Forms
hexagonal_prismpinacoiddihexagonal_prism
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Open in PlaygroundRelated Minerals
Other minerals in the hexagonal system
