mineral

Beryl (Emerald variety in host rock)

Be3Al2(SiO3)6 (Silicate mineral)

Hardness: 7.5 to 8 on Mohs scale; Color: Green (due to Chromium/Vanadium); Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: Poor/Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 2.63 - 2.80

Hardness: 7
Color: Green (due to Chromium/Vanadium)
Luster: Vitreous

Identified June 27, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7.5 to 8 on Mohs scale; Color: Green (due to Chromium/Vanadium); Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: Poor/Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 2.63 - 2.80

Formation & geological history

Formed in granitic pegmatites or metamorphic rocks like mica schists. The green color is a result of trace amounts of chromium or vanadium replacing aluminum in the crystal lattice. Most deposits are millions of years old, often associated with hydrothermal veins.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a gemstone in high-end jewelry. Industrial value is lower for low-grade opaque specimens, though Beryl is a source of Beryllium for aerospace and electronics.

Geological facts

Emeralds are one of the 'Big Four' precious stones. Inclusions within the stone are so common they are referred to as 'jardin' (French for garden). A flawless natural emerald is rarer than a flawless diamond.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by looking for hexagonal prismatic crystals, high hardness, and distinct green hue within a lighter host rock like schist or quartz. Commonly found in Colombia, Brazil, and mica schists of North Carolina/Russia.

Other mineral specimens

See all

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