Emerald
Beryl var. Emerald · Precious Gemstone
Crystal System
Hexagonal, typically forming prismatic crystals with hexagonal cross-sections
Mineral Group
Silicates (Cyclosilicate)
Chemical Formula
Be3Al2Si6O18 with Cr3+, V3+, and Fe3+ substituting for Al
Formation Process
Hydrothermal metamorphic process where beryllium-rich pegmatitic fluids interact with chromium- or vanadium-bearing host rocks under moderate temperatures and pressures
About This Crystal
Vibrant rich green gemstone with vivid color saturation, ranging from translucent to transparent with a vitreous luster, often containing characteristic internal fractures and inclusions known as jardin
Physical Characteristics
Green body color with a white streak, hexagonal prism habit, imperfect basal cleavage, conchoidal to uneven fracture, specific gravity of approximately 2.72 to 2.80, brittle tenacity, and generally inert under UV light
Optical Properties
Doubly refractive with uniaxial negative optical character, refractive index of 1.577 to 1.583, weak to moderate pleochroism showing bluish-green and yellowish-green colors
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Colombia, Zambia, Brazil, Zimbabwe, Madagascar, and Russia; formed in tectonic-magmatic environments
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness of 7.5 to 8, but possesses poor to moderate toughness due to numerous inclusions and internal stresses, requiring careful wear in jewelry
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water using a soft brush, avoid ultrasonic and steam cleaners due to fracture fillings and oil treatments, store separately away from harder stones and direct sunlight
Rarity & Value
Rare to very rare depending on clarity, color saturation, and origin; highly valued with prices scaling dramatically for fine-quality untreated stones; oil and resin fracture-filling treatments are very common
Special Characteristics
Famous for inclusions known as jardin (garden), three-phase inclusions containing liquid, gas, and a solid crystal, which help authenticate natural origin over synthetics
Lore & History
Historically prized by ancient Egyptians, Incas, and Romans as a symbol of rebirth and fertility; associated with the Heart Chakra in modern metaphysical traditions and traditionally believed to promote emotional balance and clarity