mineral

Raw Emerald in Matrix

Beryl (Be3Al2Si6O18) with Chromium/Vanadium impurities

Hardness: 7.5-8.0 on Mohs scale; Color: Distinctive green within a brownish-grey matrix; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: Imperfect basal

Hardness: 7
Color: Distinctive green within a brownish-grey matrix
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified June 27, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7.5-8.0 on Mohs scale; Color: Distinctive green within a brownish-grey matrix; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: Imperfect basal

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal veins or pegmatites where beryllium-rich fluids interact with chromium or vanadium-bearing host rocks. Typical formation involves metamorphic or igneous processes under high pressure.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a gemstone for jewelry. Non-gem quality specimens are popular as mineral collectibles or for lapidary study.

Geological facts

Emeralds are one of the 'Big Three' precious gemstones. The green color comes from trace amounts of chromium and/or vanadium replacing aluminum in the beryl crystal lattice.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its specific 'emerald green' hue against a duller host rock. Commonly found in locations like Colombia, Brazil, Zambia, and North Carolina (USA). In the field, look for hexagonal prism shapes protruding from schist or quartz.

Other mineral specimens

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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

Schist

Metamorphic

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