gemstone

Emerald

Beryl, Be₃Al₂(SiO₃)₆, colored green mainly by chromium and/or vanadium

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Faceted rectangular step-cut gemstone with vivid green color, vitreous luster, and visible inclusions (“jardin”). Mohs hardness 7.5–8; hexagonal crystal structure; poor basal cleavage; specific gravity about 2.67–2.78.

Identified August 7, 2026More gemstone →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms in hydrothermal veins and pegmatitic environments where beryllium-rich fluids interact with chromium- or vanadium-bearing rocks. Colombian emeralds commonly formed in Cretaceous sedimentary basins, roughly 65–145 million years ago.

Uses & applications

Used primarily in jewelry and gem collecting; fine Colombian material can be exceptionally valuable. Emeralds may be oil-filled to reduce the appearance of fractures.

Geological facts

The image strongly resembles a faceted emerald, and the reported location near Bogotá is regionally plausible for Colombian emeralds, although the exact mine cannot be determined visually.

Field identification & locations

Identify by saturated green color, natural inclusions, moderate-to-good hardness, and refractive sparkle; distinguish from green glass, synthetic emerald, tourmaline, and green garnet with laboratory testing. Colombian sources include Muzo, Chivor, and Coscuez.