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.