Rock Identifier
Emerald in Matrix (Beryl (Be3Al2Si6O18 with Chromium/Vanadium traces)) — gemstone
gemstone

Emerald in Matrix

Beryl (Be3Al2Si6O18 with Chromium/Vanadium traces)

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.

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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