Gemstone profile and identification guide
Emerald
Emerald is a Green, Forest Green cyclosilicate (beryl) prized for its distinctive beauty, historic appeal, and use in fine jewellery and collector pieces.
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Overview
Emerald is a Green, Forest Green cyclosilicate (beryl) prized for its distinctive beauty, historic appeal, and use in fine jewellery and collector pieces.
Use this profile as a collector reference and educational guide for quick on-page comparison, then validate with the interactive identification system.
Identification
Name: Emerald
Scientific classification: Cyclosilicate (Beryl)
Hardness: 7.5 Mohs
Transparency: transparent
Lustre: vitreous
Crystal system: Hexagonal
Primary colour: Emerald Green
Secondary colour: Forest Green
Colour family: Greens
Physical Properties
Hardness category: hard
Hardness value: 7.5 Mohs
Chemical composition: Beryllium aluminum silicate with chromium/vanadium (Be3Al2Si6O18)
Crystal system: Hexagonal
Common locations: Colombia, Zambia, Brazil, Afghanistan
Learn more: Gem-A gemstone education resources.
Colour Variations
Emerald is classified within the greens palette. Primary colour: emerald green. Secondary colour: forest green.
Optical effects: None specified in the current dataset.
Formation
Grown in hydrothermal veins and pegmatites where beryllium, chromium, and vanadium concentrate.
Origin
Colombia, Zambia, Brazil, Afghanistan
Uses
Best for: Durable centerpieces for rings and daily wear.
Ideal uses: High-impact settings and heirloom designs.
Care
Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and extreme temperature changes. Clean gently with a soft cloth and mild soap.
Need another candidate? Use advanced gemstone search or return to the identification guide.
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Emerald FAQ
How can I identify Emerald?
Compare hardness (7.5 Mohs), crystal system (Hexagonal), colour profile, and lustre (vitreous) with your sample. Then cross-check related gemstones listed above.
What colour range does Emerald appear in?
Emerald is classified within the greens palette. Primary colour: emerald green. Secondary colour: forest green.
Where is Emerald commonly used?
High-impact settings and heirloom designs.. For maintenance, follow the care guidance in this profile.
Scientific References
Reference data from GIA and Mindat mineral records.