Emerald
A variety of Beryl
What is Emerald?
Emerald is one of the most well-known gemstones and commonly used for jewelry and other ornamental decoration. Emerald is graded on a scale of hue, tonal grade, and saturation. In general, a high-grade emerald will be medium to very dark in coloring. Most marketed gemstones are Colombian and have a blue-green color.
Uses & Applications
Emerald is a classic gemstone and a staple for high-end jewelry. These gem-quality beryls are too valuable in the jewelry trade to be used for any other purpose, and faceted stones are set into rings, necklaces, earrings, and more. Emerald has been used for such purposes in ancient Egypt as far back as 1500 BCE.
Healing Properties
Emerald is believed to detoxify the body from the negative effects caused by excessive stress and mental exhaustion. It is believed that the stone helps to encourage positive energy to flow through the body and also restores vitality and drive. This stone can be used to align the chakras, bringing a sense of balance and contentment to meet the challenges of daily life.
Optical Properties
- Refractive Index
- 1.565-1.602
- Birefringence
- 0.004-0.010
- Pleochroism
- Strong: yellow green, blue green
- Optical Character
- Uniaxial negative
- Dispersion
- 0.014
Discover Values
This stone excels in rarity, collection value.
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Emerald before comparing listings or appraisals.
Size & Weight
Larger, intact specimens usually command higher prices.
Rarity & Demand
Scarce material or popular varieties sell at a premium.
Condition & Finish
Chips, repairs, and heavy wear lower value; clean prep helps.
Treatment & Provenance
Untreated specimens with documented locality are prized.
Emerald Localities Map
See where Emerald is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Associated Chakras
More Images
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Green, slightly yellowish-green, bluish or pure deep green
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 7.5 - 8
- Density
- 2.67 - 2.78 g/cm³
- Streak
- White
- Luster
- Vitreous
- Crystal System
- Hexagonal
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- Be3Al2(Si6O18)
- Elements
- Al, Be, O, Si
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Emerald FAQs
How do I identify Emerald?
Emerald can be identified by its hardness of 7.5 - 8 on the Mohs scale, Green color, Vitreous luster, Hexagonal crystal system. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Emerald?
Emerald typically appears in Green, slightly yellowish-green, bluish or pure deep green. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Emerald?
Emerald has a hardness of 7.5 - 8 on the Mohs scale. This makes it a relatively hard mineral suitable for jewelry.
