mineral

Emerald in Matrix

Beryl (Be3Al2Si6O18) with trace amounts of Chromium/Vanadium

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

Hardness: 7
Color: Intense green to bluish-green
Luster: Vitreous

Identified March 16, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

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

Formation & geological history

Formed in metamorphic rocks (schists) or hydrothermal veins where beryllium-rich fluids interact with chromium or vanadium-rich rocks. Age varies by location but can range from hundreds of millions to billions of years old.

Uses & applications

Primary use is in high-end jewelry as a gemstone. Low-grade specimens like this matrix stone are popular for mineral collecting, tumbled stones, and metaphysical purposes.

Geological facts

Emeralds are one of the 'Big Three' colored gemstones. Unlike many other gemstones, inclusions (called 'jardin' or the garden) are expected and often used to identify natural vs. synthetic stones.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its distinct green color and hexagonal habit. In the field, look for green crystals embedded in darker host rock (schist or quartz). Common locations include Colombia, Brazil, and Zambia.

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