mineral

Emerald in Matrix

Emerald (Beryllium Aluminum Silicate - Be3Al2(SiO3)6)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 7.5-8.0 on the Mohs scale; Color: Green to bluish-green; Luster: Vitreous (glass-like); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: Poor; Specific Gravity: 2.67-2.78

Hardness: 7
Color: Green to bluish-green
Luster: Vitreous (glass-like)

Identified July 1, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7.5-8.0 on the Mohs scale; Color: Green to bluish-green; Luster: Vitreous (glass-like); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: Poor; Specific Gravity: 2.67-2.78

Formation & geological history

Emeralds are typically formed in pegmatite deposits or hydrothermal veins in metamorphic environments where beryllium and chromium/vanadium interact under high heat and pressure, often millions of years old.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a gemstone in high-end jewelry and as a prized specimen for mineral collectors.

Geological facts

The green color of an emerald is caused by trace amounts of chromium or vanadium. Flawless emeralds are extremely rare and can be more valuable than diamonds of equivalent weight.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its characteristic hexagonal crystal habit and vivid green color against a darker matrix (often schist or dark limestone). Found in Colombia, Brazil, Zambia, and Ethiopia.