Emerald
Image: Szilas (CC0)
Mineral NameEmerald
Chemical FormulaBe3Al2(SiO3)6
Mohs Hardness7.5
Crystal Systemhexagonal
Lustervitreous
Streak Colorwhite
Cleavageimperfect basal
Fractureconchoidal
Specific Gravity2.72
Colorsgreen
Transparencytranslucent
Type LocalitySiberia
Mineral GroupSilicates
Usesjewelry, collector
Associated Mineralsquartz, feldspar, mica
Rarityrare
Description
A prismatic, hexagonal crystal of vibrant green color, exhibiting some internal inclusions and a somewhat rough, natural crystal face. It is displayed upright on a reflective surface.
Geological Context
Emeralds are a variety of beryl that typically form in metamorphic rocks such as schists, or in pegmatites and hydrothermal veins, where beryllium-rich fluids interact with chromium or vanadium-bearing rocks.
