mineral

Emerald in Matrix

Beryl (Be3Al2Si6O18) with Chromium/Vanadium impurities

Hardness: 7.5-8.0 on Mohs scale; Color: Green beryl crystal in a brown to gray host rock matrix; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: Imperfect basal; Specific Gravity: 2.63-2.90

Hardness: 7
Color: Green beryl crystal in a brown to gray host rock matrix
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified June 27, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in pegmatites or hydrothermal veins where beryllium is present and undergoes metamorphism or igneous activity. Commonly found in host rocks like schist or quartz.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a gemstone in jewelry, but raw specimens are highly valued by mineral collectors for study and display.

Geological facts

Emeralds are one of the 'Big Three' gemstones. The green color is specifically caused by trace amounts of chromium or sometimes vanadium replacing aluminum in the beryl structure.

Field identification & locations

Identify by looking for the distinct hexagonal prism shape of the green crystal embedded in a contrasting host rock. Major deposits are in Colombia, Brazil, and Zambia.

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

Green Apatite on Albite

Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]

mineral