
mineral
Green beryl (probable emerald-like beryl) in matrix
Beryl, Be₃Al₂Si₆O₁₈; green color from chromium/vanadium (emerald when gem-quality)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectVisible material appears translucent green with a vitreous luster, likely in a polished or wet matrix; beryl is Mohs 7.5–8, hexagonal, with poor cleavage and specific gravity about 2.63–2.92. Strong glare and limited exposure make exact identification uncertain.
Identified More mineral →
Explore Green beryl (probable emerald-like beryl) in matrix in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Visible material appears translucent green with a vitreous luster, likely in a polished or wet matrix; beryl is Mohs 7.5–8, hexagonal, with poor cleavage and specific gravity about 2.63–2.92. Strong glare and limited exposure make exact identification uncertain.
Formation & geological history
Beryl crystallizes in hydrothermal pegmatites and associated metamorphic rocks, typically during late-stage granite formation; deposits range from Precambrian to younger ages. The Townsville region near 19.3°S, 146.8°E has granitic and metamorphic geology, making beryl plausible, though emerald-grade material is uncommon.
Uses & applications
Gem-quality emerald is used in jewelry; ordinary green beryl is mainly a collector specimen. Matrix pieces have modest display value unless the color, transparency, and crystal form are exceptional.
Geological facts
Emerald is not a separate mineral species but chromium- or vanadium-bearing beryl. The image may also represent green fluorite, glassy slag, or a coated/polished specimen, so testing is needed.
Field identification & locations
Look for a hexagonal prismatic crystal, hardness sufficient to resist scratching by steel, and no bubbles; a refractometer, specific-gravity test, and Raman/XRF analysis can confirm it. Common beryl localities include Brazil, Colombia, Zambia, Afghanistan, Madagascar, and pegmatites worldwide.
More like this
Other mineral specimens
Gneiss or Schist
Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Limonite
FeO(OH)•nH2O
mineral
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Tumbled granite
Granite, a coarse-grained felsic intrusive igneous rock
igneous
Feldspar
Feldspar Group (Tectosilicate, e.g., KAlSi3O8)
mineral
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous