Emerald is a variety of beryl, a cyclosilicate mineral found in igneous and metamorphic rocks.
True emeralds have deep, rich green color. Lighter shades of green or blue/green beryl are not emeralds. The first emerald mines were believed to have been located in ancient Egypt, in the area of Mount Smaragdus. Explorers in the early 19th century rediscovered thousands of emerald mining operations believed to have been the main source of emeralds to the ancient world. Today’s main producers of fine gemstone emeralds are Zimbabwe, Brazil, Columbia and Zambia. A small amount of emerald is mined in North Carolina.
Chemical Composition: Be3Al2(Si6O18)
Hardness: 7.5 - 8
Crystal system: Hexagonal