mineral

Rough Emerald (Beryl)

Emerald (Be3Al2(SiO3)6 with Cr/V impurities)

Hardness: 7.5-8.0 on Mohs scale; Color: Bluish-green to deep green; Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to dull in rough form; Crystal structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: Poor/indistinct basal cleavage; Specific Gravity: 2.67-2.78.

Hardness: 7
Color: Bluish-green to deep green
Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to dull in rough form

Identified March 24, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal veins or pegmatites where beryllium-rich fluids meet chromium or vanadium-bearing rocks. Most significant deposits are millions of years old, found in metamorphic schist or sedimentary limestone environments.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a gemstone in high-end jewelry. Rough specimens are popular for mineral collectors and 'crystal healing' practitioners. Industrial use is rare due to the high value of even low-quality stones compared to synthetic beryl.

Geological facts

Emeralds are more valuable than diamonds pound-for-pound when they possess high clarity and deep 'Colombian' green. The green color comes specifically from trace amounts of chromium and/or vanadium replacing aluminum in the crystal lattice.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its distinct hexagonal prismatic habit (though weathered in this specimen) and intense green color that persists even when wet. Commonly found in Colombia, Brazil, Zambia, and Ethiopia. Seek out contact zones between granitic intrusions and metamorphic rocks.

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