Rock Identifier
Emerald (cut gemstone) (Beryl, Be₃Al₂Si₆O₁₈, colored green mainly by chromium and/or vanadium) — gemstone
gemstone

Emerald (cut gemstone)

Beryl, Be₃Al₂Si₆O₁₈, colored green mainly by chromium and/or vanadium

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

The image shows a small faceted green stone in jewelry, likely an emerald; identification cannot be confirmed from the photo alone. Emerald has Mohs hardness 7.5–8, vitreous luster, a hexagonal crystal system, and typically visible inclusions; color ranges from green to bluish green.

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Physical properties

The image shows a small faceted green stone in jewelry, likely an emerald; identification cannot be confirmed from the photo alone. Emerald has Mohs hardness 7.5–8, vitreous luster, a hexagonal crystal system, and typically visible inclusions; color ranges from green to bluish green.

Formation & geological history

Emeralds crystallize in beryllium-bearing rocks where chromium or vanadium is available, often in hydrothermal veins or metamorphic settings. Their deposits range widely in age and occur in countries including Colombia, Zambia, Brazil, and Afghanistan.

Uses & applications

Cut emeralds are used in jewelry and collected as gemstones; beryl is also a minor source of beryllium.

Geological facts

Emerald is the green variety of beryl; natural stones commonly contain inclusions, traditionally called a jardin.

Field identification & locations

A gemological examination is needed to distinguish natural emerald from synthetic stones or green lookalikes such as glass. Check for inclusions and seek testing for refractive properties; a photograph is insufficient for confirmation.