mineral

Emerald

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

Hardness: 7.5–8.0 Mohs; Color: Distinct vivid green; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: Poor/Basal; Specific Gravity: 2.76

Hardness: 7
Color: Distinct vivid green
Luster: Vitreous

Identified March 13, 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 Mohs; Color: Distinct vivid green; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: Poor/Basal; Specific Gravity: 2.76

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal veins or pegmatites where beryllium-rich fluids interact with chromium or vanadium-bearing rocks (metamorphic/igneous contact zones). Ages vary by location, often 30-500 million years old.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a precious gemstone in high-end jewelry. Rough specimens are highly valued by mineral collectors for their crystal aesthetics.

Geological facts

Emeralds are often more included than other gemstones, leading to the term 'jardin' (French for garden) to describe their internal patterns. They are the birthstone for May.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its intense green color (unlike the yellowish tint of peridot) and hexagonal crystal habit. Found in Colombia, Zambia, Brazil, and Ethiopia. Collectors look for 'trapiche' patterns or deep saturated color.

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