mineral
Emerald
Beryl (Be3Al2(SiO3)6) with Chromium and/or Vanadium impurities
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 7.5-8.0 on Mohs scale; Color: Green to bluish-green; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: Poor/Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 2.67-2.78
- Hardness
- 7
- Color
- Green to bluish-green
- Luster
- Vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7.5-8.0 on Mohs scale; Color: 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 interact with chromium-rich host rocks (like schist). Formation can date back hundreds of millions of years, often in metamorphic environments.
Uses & applications
Primarily used as a precious gemstone in high-end jewelry (rings, necklaces). Also of high value for mineral collectors due to its rarity and color.
Geological facts
Emerald is one of the four traditional 'precious' stones. Most emeralds contain tiny fractures or inclusions known as 'jardin' (French for garden), which can actually prove the stone's natural origin.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its distinct hexagonal crystal habit and intense green color. Common locations include Colombia, Brazil, Zambia, and Russia. Collectors look for clarity and 'fire' within the deep green hue.
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Other mineral specimens
Gneiss or Schist
Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Tumbled granite
Granite, a coarse-grained felsic intrusive igneous rock
igneous
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous