mineral

Emerald (Rough)

Beryl (Be3Al2Si6O18 with Chromium/Vanadium impurities)

Hardness: 7.5-8.0 (Mohs scale), Color: Vivid green to bluish green, Luster: Vitreous to resinous (in rough form), Crystal Structure: Hexagonal, Cleavage: Imperfect/Poor, Specific Gravity: 2.67-2.78

Hardness: 7

Identified June 1, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7.5-8.0 (Mohs scale), Color: Vivid green to bluish green, Luster: Vitreous to resinous (in rough form), Crystal Structure: Hexagonal, Cleavage: Imperfect/Poor, Specific Gravity: 2.67-2.78

Formation & geological history

Formed in metamorphic or hydrothermal environments where beryllium-bearing fluids interact with chromium or vanadium-rich rocks (like schist). Most deposits are millions of years old, often associated with pegmatites.

Uses & applications

Primarily used in high-end jewelry and gemstone collections. Lower quality opaque specimens are used for beads, cabochons, or scientific mineral samples.

Geological facts

Emerald is the birthstone for May. While very hard, emeralds are brittle and often contain many inclusions, known as the 'jardin' (garden), which can make them prone to cracking if hit.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its distinct green color (unlike the yellowish-green of peridot), hexagonal crystal habits, and characteristic inclusions under a loupe. Commonly found in Colombia, Zambia, Brazil, and Ethiopia.

Other mineral specimens

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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

Schist

Metamorphic

Epidote

Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)

metamorphic

Nephrite Jade

Nephrite

Mineral/Rock

Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)

Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)

Metamorphic Rock

Biotite Schist

Biotite-rich Schist [K(Mg,Fe)3AlSi3O10(F,OH)2]

metamorphic