gemstone
Emerald in Matrix
Beryl (Be3Al2Si6O18 with Chromium/Vanadium traces)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 7.5-8 on the Mohs scale. Color: Medium to dark bluish-green crystal embedded in dark schist host rock. Luster: Vitreous to resinous. Crystal structure: Hexagonal. Cleavage: Poor/Indistinct.
- Hardness
- 7
- Luster
- Vitreous to resinous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7.5-8 on the Mohs scale. Color: Medium to dark bluish-green crystal embedded in dark schist host rock. Luster: Vitreous to resinous. Crystal structure: Hexagonal. Cleavage: Poor/Indistinct.
Formation & geological history
Formed in metamorphic and hydrothermal environments where beryllium-bearing pegmatites interact with chromium-rich or vanadium-rich country rocks like mica schist or carbonaceous shale.
Uses & applications
Highly prized as a gemstone for jewelry, and as raw or matrix specimens for mineral collectors.
Geological facts
Emerald is the green variety of the mineral beryl. Famous inclusions in emeralds are often referred to as 'jardin' (French for garden) due to their mossy appearance.
Field identification & locations
Look for characteristic green hexagonal prismatic crystals embedded in dark mica schist or calcite matrix. Major sources include Colombia, Brazil, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Russia.
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