mineral
Emerald in Matrix
Beryl (Be3Al2(SiO3)6) with Chromium/Vanadium impurities
Hardness: 7.5-8.0 on Mohs scale; Color: Distinctive vivid green; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: Poor/Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 2.67-2.78
- Hardness
- 7
- Color
- Distinctive vivid green
- Luster
- Vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7.5-8.0 on Mohs scale; Color: Distinctive vivid green; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: Poor/Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 2.67-2.78
Formation & geological history
Formed in hydrothermal veins or pegmatites where beryllium is present in magma and meets chromium or vanadium in the surrounding crust, often in metamorphic environments.
Uses & applications
Primary use is in high-end jewelry as a gemstone; also highly valued by mineral collectors as cabinet specimens.
Geological facts
Emerald is one of the 'Big Three' colored gemstones along with Ruby and Sapphire. Flawless emeralds are extremely rare, as most contain 'jardin' (internal inclusions resembling a garden).
Field identification & locations
Identify by its hexagonal prismatic crystal habit and unique green hue. Collectors look for crystals still attached to their natural host rock (matrix) like schist or limestone.
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Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)
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Epidote
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