Emerald (Beryl)
Image: Robert M. Lavinsky (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Mineral NameEmerald (Beryl)
Chemical FormulaBe3Al2Si6O18
Mohs Hardness7.5
Crystal Systemhexagonal
Lustervitreous
Streak Colorwhite
Cleavageimperfect basal
Fractureconchoidal to uneven
Specific Gravity2.72
Colorsdeep green
Transparencytranslucent
Type LocalityMuzo Mine, Muzo, Vasquez-Yacopí Mining District, Boyacá Department, Colombia
Mineral GroupSilicates (Cyclosilicates)
Usesjewelry, collector
Associated Mineralscalcite, pyrite, quartz, albite
Rarityrare
Description
A vibrant deep green, translucent hexagonal crystal of emerald, showing characteristic growth patterns and some internal fractures.
Geological Context
Emeralds from the Muzo Mine in Colombia are typically found in calcite-pyrite veins within black shales, formed through low-temperature hydrothermal processes in sedimentary rocks, a unique geological setting compared to most emerald deposits.
