mineral

Rough beryl, possibly emerald

Beryl, Be₃Al₂Si₆O₁₈; green color may be due to chromium or vanadium

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

A small, opaque-to-translucent green specimen with a vitreous luster and likely hexagonal beryl crystals; beryl is Mohs 7.5–8, has poor basal cleavage, and specific gravity about 2.7. The photo alone cannot confirm gem-quality emerald or distinguish beryl from other green minerals.

Identified October 10, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Beryl crystallizes in pegmatites and hydrothermal veins, often in mica schist; emerald-bearing deposits commonly form through interaction of beryllium-rich fluids with chromium- or vanadium-rich rocks. Such deposits span a wide range of geological ages.

Uses & applications

Gem-quality emerald is cut for jewelry; ordinary beryl is collected and, less commonly, used as a source of beryllium. This rough piece appears primarily of specimen interest.

Geological facts

Emerald is the green gem variety of beryl, not a separate mineral species; visible color and inclusions alone do not establish emerald identity.

Field identification & locations

Green color and a blocky or prismatic form are suggestive but not diagnostic; confirm with hardness, crystal form, and mineral testing. Beryl occurs worldwide, including Colombia, Brazil, Zambia, and pegmatite regions; locality is unknown here.