mineral

Emerald

Beryl (Be3Al2(SiO3)6) with Chromium and/or Vanadium impurities

Hardness: 7.5-8.0 on the Mohs scale; Color: Vivid green to bluish-green; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: Imperfect/Basal; Specific Gravity: 2.67-2.78.

Hardness: 7
Color: Vivid green to bluish-green
Luster: Vitreous

Identified March 11, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7.5-8.0 on the Mohs scale; Color: Vivid green to bluish-green; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: Imperfect/Basal; Specific Gravity: 2.67-2.78.

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal veins or pegmatites where beryllium-rich fluids interact with chromium or vanadium-bearing rocks. Most deposits range from 30 million to over 2 billion years old, primarily in metamorphic-sedimentary environments.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a precious gemstone in high-end jewelry and as a sought-after mineral specimen for collectors.

Geological facts

Emeralds are often more included than other gemstones, leading to the term 'jardin' (French for garden) to describe their internal patterns. The most famous historic emeralds come from the Muzo and Chivor mines in Colombia.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its distinct hexagonal prismatic habit and intense green color. Common locations include Colombia, Brazil, Zambia, and Ethiopia. Collectors look for 'three-phase inclusions' to identify natural origin.

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