Rock Identifier
Beryl (Emerald Variety) (Beryllium Aluminum Silicate (Be3Al2(SiO3)6)) — mineral
mineral

Beryl (Emerald Variety)

Beryllium Aluminum Silicate (Be3Al2(SiO3)6)

Hardness: 7.5-8.0 on Mohs scale; Color: Green to bluish-green; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: Imperfect; Specific Gravity: 2.67-2.78

Hardness
7
Color
Green to bluish-green
Luster
Vitreous
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Physical properties

Hardness: 7.5-8.0 on Mohs scale; Color: Green to bluish-green; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: Imperfect; Specific Gravity: 2.67-2.78

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal veins or pegmatites where beryllium is present. Large green crystals often form in metamorphic schists. Geological age varies by deposit, ranging from hundreds of millions to billions of years old.

Uses & applications

High-quality specimens are used as gemstones in fine jewelry. Lower quality rough is used for mineral specimen collecting and as a source of beryllium metal for aerospace and electronics.

Geological facts

The green color in emeralds comes from trace amounts of chromium or vanadium. Flawless emeralds are extremely rare, and most contain 'jardin' (internal inclusions) which are accepted as part of their natural character.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its hexagonal crystal habit, distinct green color, and high hardness. Commonly found in Colombia, Brazil, Zambia, and Russia. Look for green crystals embedded in white quartz or dark schist matrix.

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