gemstone

Emerald (Rough)

Beryl (Be3Al2Si6O18 with Chromium/Vanadium impurities)

Hardness: 7.5-8.0 on Mohs scale; Color: Intense green to bluish-green; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: Poor/Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 2.67-2.78.

Hardness: 7
Color: Intense green to bluish-green
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified July 21, 2026More gemstone →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7.5-8.0 on Mohs scale; Color: Intense green to bluish-green; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); 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 interact with chromium or vanadium-rich rocks. Often found in schist or limestone host rocks. Ages vary, with famous deposits ranging from 65 million to over 500 million years old.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a high-value gemstone for jewelry and a prized mineral specimen for collectors. Lower quality Opaque emeralds are sometimes used in industrial abrasives.

Geological facts

The green color is caused by trace amounts of chromium and sometimes vanadium. Unlike many other gemstones, visible inclusions (known as the 'jardin' or garden) are expected and can help confirm natural origin.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its characteristic six-sided hexagonal prismatic crystal shape and intense green color. Common locations include Colombia, Brazil, Zambia, and Ethiopia. Collectors should look for color saturation and transparency.

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