mineral

Emerald

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

Hardness: 7.5-8.0 on Mohs scale; Color: Green to bluish-green; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: Imperfect basal; Specific Gravity: 2.67-2.78

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

Identified May 6, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7.5-8.0 on Mohs scale; Color: 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 and chromium/vanadium meet. Found in metamorphic rocks like schist or sedimentary rocks like shale. Many deposits date from 30 million to over 2 billion years old.

Uses & applications

Primary use is in high-end jewelry as a precious gemstone. Occasional use in collecting and investment portfolios.

Geological facts

Emeralds are one of the 'Big Four' precious stones. They often contain internal fractures and inclusions known as 'jardin' (French for garden). Historically, Cleopatra was famous for her love of emeralds.

Field identification & locations

Identify by deep green color, characteristic hexagonal crystal shape when raw, and frequent 'jardin' inclusions. Found prominently in Colombia, Zambia, Brazil, and Ethiopia. Seek expert appraisal for authenticity due to common synthetic versions.

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