mineral

Rough Emerald in Matrix

Beryl (Be3Al2Si6O18) with trace Chromium/Vanadium

Hardness: 7.5-8.0 on Mohs scale; Color: Deep green (emerald) with grey/white host rock (matrix); Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal; Specific Gravity: 2.67-2.78.

Hardness: 7
Color: Deep green (emerald) with grey/white host rock (matrix)
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified March 23, 2026More mineral →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Hardness: 7.5-8.0 on Mohs scale; Color: Deep green (emerald) with grey/white host rock (matrix); Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal; Specific Gravity: 2.67-2.78.

Formation & geological history

Formed in metamorphic or hydrothermal environments where beryllium-bearing pegmatites come into contact with chromium-rich mafic or ultramafic rocks. Common in schist or marble host rocks.

Uses & applications

Mostly used for gemstone jewelry when gem-grade; non-gem grade specimens are highly valued by mineral collectors for display and scientific study.

Geological facts

Emeralds are green beryl; the green hue comes from trace amounts of chromium or vanadium. Most natural emeralds (over 90%) contain surface-reaching inclusions or 'gardens' (jardin) that prove their natural origin.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by looking for translucent green hexagonal prisms embedded in darker schist or lighter calcite matrix. Common locations include Colombia, Brazil, and Zambia.

Other mineral specimens

See all

Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

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

Epidote

Epidote - Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)3(SiO4)3(OH)

mineral