gemstone
Emerald
Beryl (Be3Al2Si6O18 with Chromium/Vanadium impurities)
Hardness: 7.5-8.0 (Mohs scale), Color: Vivid green to bluish-green, Luster: Vitreous, Crystal Structure: Hexagonal, Cleavage: Imperfect/Poor, Specific Gravity: 2.67-2.78.
- Hardness
- 7
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7.5-8.0 (Mohs scale), Color: Vivid green to bluish-green, Luster: Vitreous, Crystal Structure: Hexagonal, Cleavage: Imperfect/Poor, Specific Gravity: 2.67-2.78.
Formation & geological history
Formed in hydrothermal veins or pegmatites where beryllium and chromium/vanadium meet, often associated with metamorphic schists. Ethiopia (the reported region) is a known modern source of high-quality emeralds.
Uses & applications
Primarily used as a precious gemstone in jewelry and a high-value collector's item.
Geological facts
Emeralds are the green variety of the mineral beryl. Their green color comes from trace amounts of chromium and/or vanadium. Unlike diamonds, natural emeralds almost always contain visible inclusions, often called a 'jardin' (garden).
Field identification & locations
Identify by the distinct hexagonal prism shape (visible in these rough pieces), green color that doesn't change with orientation, and high hardness. They are found in the Kenticha and Shakiso regions of Southern Ethiopia.
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