mineral
Rough emerald
Emerald, green variety of beryl (Be₃Al₂Si₆O₁₈), colored mainly by chromium and/or vanadium
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectTranslucent blue-green to vivid green, vitreous luster, hexagonal crystal system; Mohs hardness 7.5–8, with indistinct cleavage and commonly visible fractures. The small, irregular specimen appears rough and may be included or fractured.
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Physical properties
Translucent blue-green to vivid green, vitreous luster, hexagonal crystal system; Mohs hardness 7.5–8, with indistinct cleavage and commonly visible fractures. The small, irregular specimen appears rough and may be included or fractured.
Formation & geological history
Forms in beryllium-bearing fluids interacting with chromium- or vanadium-rich rocks, often in metamorphic or hydrothermal settings. Emerald deposits occur in rocks of varied ages, including Colombia’s Cretaceous deposits and older deposits elsewhere.
Uses & applications
Gem-quality material is cut for jewelry; lower-grade rough is collected or used decoratively.
Geological facts
Emerald is the green variety of beryl; color and inclusions distinguish it from many other green minerals.
Field identification & locations
Look for green color, vitreous luster, and a hexagonal beryl crystal habit, though this fragment’s shape alone cannot confirm emerald. Major sources include Colombia, Zambia, Brazil, and Afghanistan.
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