mineral

Emerald

Emerald (Beryl variety); Be3Al2(SiO3)6 with Chromium/Vanadium impurities

Hardness: 7.5-8.0 (Mohs scale); Color: Vivid green to bluish green; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: Poor/Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 2.67-2.78

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

Identified March 13, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7.5-8.0 (Mohs scale); Color: Vivid green to bluish green; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: Poor/Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 2.67-2.78

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal veins or at the contact zones of granitic pegmatites with schists. The green color comes from trace amounts of chromium or vanadium. Most famous deposits range from Cretaceous to Cenozoic in age.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a precious gemstone in jewelry (rings, necklaces, earrings). Opaque or heavily included specimens are valued by mineral collectors for educational and display purposes.

Geological facts

Emeralds are famous for their 'jardin' (French for garden), which are internal inclusions that make each stone unique. They were historically mined by the Ancient Egyptians as early as 1500 BCE.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its distinct green color and hexagonal crystal habit. Common locations include Colombia (Muzo/Chivor), Brazil, Zambia, and Ethiopia. Collectors should look for deep color and transparency.

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