mineral
Emerald in Matrix
Beryl (Be3Al2(SiO3)6) embedded in schist or pegmatite host rock
Hardness of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale, color ranges from pale green to deep vibrant green, vitreous to sub-vitreous luster, hexagonal crystal system, distinct prismatic crystal habit embedded in a dark micaceous or biotite-rich matrix, specific gravity around 2.65 to 2.80.
Identified More mineral →
Explore Emerald in Matrix in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale, color ranges from pale green to deep vibrant green, vitreous to sub-vitreous luster, hexagonal crystal system, distinct prismatic crystal habit embedded in a dark micaceous or biotite-rich matrix, specific gravity around 2.65 to 2.80.
Formation & geological history
Formed in hydrothermal environments, typically within pegmatites or metamorphic rocks like mica schists where beryllium-rich fluids interact with surrounding chromium or vanadium-bearing rock. Geological age varies greatly by deposit, ranging from Precambrian to Tertiary periods.
Uses & applications
Primarily used as a precious gemstone in fine jewelry, highly prized by mineral collectors, and historically used for ornamental carvings.
Geological facts
Emeralds are among the rarest gemstones in the world. Their characteristic green color is due to trace amounts of chromium, vanadium, and sometimes iron. Specimens showing crystals still embedded within their natural host matrix are highly sought after by collectors.
Field identification & locations
Can be identified in the field by its distinct hexagonal prismatic crystal shape, green coloration, and high hardness (will scratch glass). Commonly sourced from countries like Colombia, Zambia, Brazil, Pakistan, and the United States (North Carolina).
More like this
Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Soil with Mineral Detritus and Quartz Fragments
Regolith / Silicate Mineral Aggregate
sedimentary
Limonite / Goethite (Iron Ore Mineral nodule)
FeO(OH)·nH2O / FeO(OH)
mineral
Septarian Pebble
Septarian nodule / Concretion
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)
Orthoclase (KAlSi3O8)
mineral