Sword in the Stone (Tourmaline in Morganite)

The Sword in the Stone (Tourmaline in Morganite) is a unique and rare specimen of morganite, a pink variety of beryl. It is named for its sword-like shape, which is caused by the inclusion of tourmaline crystals.

Sword in the Stone (Tourmaline in Morganite). From: Pederneira claim, São José da Safira, Doce valley, Minas Gerais, Brazil Photo credit: Joe Budd

The Sword in the Stone was discovered in the Pederneira Mine in Minas Gerais, Brazil, in the early 1900s. It was originally thought to be a worthless piece of rock, but upon closer examination, it was found to be a morganite specimen with tourmaline inclusions. The specimen was then cut and polished, revealing its sword-like shape.

The Sword in the Stone is a popular tourist attraction and is on display at the American Museum of Natural History in New York City. It is a reminder of the beauty and diversity of the mineral world.

Facts about the Sword in the Stone:

• The morganite crystal is a variety of beryl, which is a common mineral.

• The tourmaline crystal is a variety of borosilicate, which is a less common mineral.

• The morganite crystal is pink because of the presence of manganese ions.

• The tourmaline crystal is black because of the presence of iron ions.

• The Sword in the Stone is estimated to be millions of years old.

• The Sword in the Stone is considered to be a national treasure of Brazil.