gemstone

Emerald in Matrix

Beryl (Be3Al2Si6O18) with Chromium/Vanadium impurities

Hardness: 7.5-8.0 on Mohs scale; Color: Vivid green crystal in dark grey schist matrix; Luster: Vitreous (glassy) for the crystal; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal; Specific Gravity: 2.76.

Hardness: 7
Color: Vivid green crystal in dark grey schist matrix
Luster: Vitreous (glassy) for the crystal

Identified July 15, 2026More gemstone →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7.5-8.0 on Mohs scale; Color: Vivid green crystal in dark grey schist matrix; Luster: Vitreous (glassy) for the crystal; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal; Specific Gravity: 2.76.

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal veins or pegmatites where beryllium is present. Large deposits are found in metamorphic schists. Colombian emeralds are typically Cretaceous in age, though formations vary globally.

Uses & applications

High-value gemstone for jewelry; the 'in matrix' specimen is popular for mineral collectors and educational displays.

Geological facts

Emerald is one of the 'Big Three' colored gemstones. It is the birthstone for May. Unlike diamonds, inclusions in emeralds are often referred to as a 'jardin' (garden) and are expected even in high-quality stones.

Field identification & locations

Identify by looking for hexagonal green prisms embedded in a dark host rock like schist or carbonaceous shale. Common locations include Colombia, Brazil, Zambia, and Russia.

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