Morganite is the pretty, peachy-pink variety of beryl, cousin to more familiar beryls like emerald and aquamarine. Morganite’s beautiful, feminine colors are a result of the presence of manganese. After its discoveries in California and Madagascar in the early 20th century, this pink beryl was renamed morganite as suggested by famed gemologist George F. Kunz. Named in honor of financier and gem enthusiast J. P. Morgan, morganite has many redeeming qualities, including durability, luster, clarity and brilliance. Though there are also small deposits in Brazil, Mozambique, Namibia, Afghanistan, and Russia, quality morganite remains relatively rare. Ironically, it is morganite’s rarity that keeps it relatively affordable, since there aren’t enough standard-sized stones available for use in manufactured jewelry.