mineral

Emerald in Matrix

Beryl (Be3Al2Si6O18) with Chromium/Vanadium impurities

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 7.5-8.0; Color: Vivid green to bluish green; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: Poor/Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 2.67-2.78

Hardness: 7
Color: Vivid green to bluish green
Luster: Vitreous

Identified July 1, 2026More mineral →

Explore Emerald in Matrix in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Hardness: 7.5-8.0; Color: Vivid green to bluish green; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: Poor/Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 2.67-2.78

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal veins or pegmatites where beryllium-rich fluids react with chromium-rich host rocks. Most famously found in Colombian sedimentary-basinal deposits and Brazilian/African metamorphic schist deposits.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a gemstone in high-end jewelry; industrial use is limited due to high value and synthetic alternatives.

Geological facts

Emerald is one of the 'Big Four' precious gemstones. The presence of chromium or vanadium is what gives it the signature green color compared to other beryl varieties like aquamarine.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its distinctive 'grass-green' hue and hexagonal crystal cross-section. Field identification often looks for the green mineral embedded in a darker schist or white quartz matrix.