Emerald Facts
A brief look at the key characteristics of this captivating green gemstone.
Mineral Type
Beryl
Origins
Colombia, Brazil, Zambia
Color
Vibrant Green
Hardness
7.5 - 8 on Mohs scale
The Allure of the Green Gem
Symbol of Rebirth
The emerald's lush green color has made it a symbol of spring, rebirth, and new beginnings for centuries. It's the perfect gem to celebrate new chapters in life.
A Royal Favorite
From Cleopatra, who claimed ownership of all emerald mines in Egypt, to modern royalty, emeralds have always been a favorite of the rich and powerful.
Garden of Inclusions
Most emeralds have unique inclusions, known as a "jardin" (garden). These are not seen as flaws, but as unique fingerprints of the gem's natural origin.
The "Green Fire"
The most prized emeralds possess a deep, vibrant green color often referred to as "green fire." This captivating hue is caused by traces of chromium and vanadium in the beryl crystal.
Formation & History
Formed over millions of years, emeralds have been mined since ancient times and cherished by many cultures.
The Green Fire of Ancient Times
Emeralds are a variety of the mineral beryl, colored green by trace amounts of chromium and vanadium. They form in hydrothermal veins within metamorphic rocks under extreme pressure and temperature conditions.
The earliest known emerald mines were in Egypt, dating back to at least 330 BC. Cleopatra was famously obsessed with emeralds and claimed ownership of all Egyptian emerald mines.
Today, Colombia produces about 70-90% of the world's emeralds, particularly from the Muzo and Chivor regions. Colombian emeralds are prized for their exceptional color and clarity.
Key Characteristics:
- Specific Gravity: 2.67-2.78
- Refractive Index: 1.577-1.583
- Crystal System: Hexagonal
- Transparency: Transparent to translucent
- Luster: Vitreous