mineral
Emerald in Matrix
Emerald (Beryllium Aluminum Silicate - Be3Al2(SiO3)6)
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)
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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.
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metamorphic
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
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Mineral
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Mineral/Rock
Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)
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