mineral

Emerald

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

Hardness: 7.5 to 8.0 on the Mohs scale. Color: Vivid green to bluish green. Luster: Vitreous (glassy). Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (six-sided prisms). Cleavage: Imperfect/Indistinct. Specific Gravity: 2.67 to 2.78.

Hardness: 7
Color: Vivid green to bluish green
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified January 8, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in metamorphic or igneous hydrothermal environments, primarily in pegmatites or carbonaceous shales. The color comes from trace amounts of chromium or vanadium during crystallization. Significant deposits range from millions to over a billion years old.

Uses & applications

Primary use is in high-end jewelry as one of the four prestigious 'precious' gemstones. It is also a highly prized specimen for mineral collectors.

Geological facts

Emeralds are often more brittle than other beryls due to their numerous inclusions, which gemologists refer to as the 'jardin' (French for garden). Historically, Cleopatra was famous for her love of emeralds, and some of the world's finest specimens come from Colombia.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by their distinct hexagonal prismatic crystal shape, intense green color, and high hardness. They are commonly found in Colombia, Brazil, Zambia, and Ethiopia. Collectors should look for its association with white calcite or black shale matrix.

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