gemstone

Emerald (green beryl)

Beryl, Be₃Al₂Si₆O₁₈; green color typically from chromium and/or vanadium

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Vivid green, translucent to opaque, vitreous luster; hexagonal crystal structure, Mohs hardness 7.5–8, specific gravity about 2.7. The pictured piece appears to be a small cut or polished emerald, though image alone cannot confirm its identity or treatment.

Identified October 10, 2026More gemstone →

Explore Emerald (green beryl) in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

At a glance

Common name: Emerald (green beryl)
Scientific name: Beryl, Be₃Al₂Si₆O₁₈; green color typically from chromium and/or vanadium
Category: gemstone
Identified: October 10, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

Approximately $5–$100 for small, opaque or heavily included material; fine transparent emeralds can be worth hundreds to many thousands of dollars per carat.

Not an official valuation

AI estimate for general interest only — not an appraisal. Actual value depends on condition, provenance, and market demand. Verify with a professional before buying, selling, or insuring.

This identification was generated by AI and may contain errors. Verify important details before relying on them — and never use an AI result to judge whether a specimen is safe to handle. Read the full disclaimer

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms in hydrothermal veins and pegmatites, commonly where beryllium-bearing fluids interact with chromium- or vanadium-rich rocks. Emerald deposits occur in rocks of varied ages, from Precambrian to much younger.

Uses & applications

Used in jewelry and as a collector gemstone; lower-grade material may be fashioned into beads or carvings.

Geological facts

Not all green beryl is emerald: gemological standards require a sufficiently strong green hue, commonly linked to chromium or vanadium.

Field identification & locations

Look for characteristic inclusions (“jardin”), strong green color, and hardness, but laboratory testing is needed to distinguish natural emerald from imitations or treated stones. Major sources include Colombia, Zambia, Brazil, and Afghanistan.