Emerald

About

Emerald Crystals Emerald is the green variety of beryl (Be₃Al₂Si₆O₁₈), colored by trace chromium and sometimes vanadium within the crystal lattice. It is one of the four traditionally recognized precious gemstones alongside diamond, ruby, and sapphire. Emerald crystallizes in the hexagonal system and rates 7.5–8 on the Mohs hardness scale, though its characteristic inclusions — which gemologists call the stone's jardin (garden) — can make individual specimens more brittle than their hardness suggests. Colombia produces the world's most prized emeralds, with the Muzo, Chivor, and Coscuez mines yielding stones with exceptional color saturation and the warm, slightly bluish green that defines "Colombian color." Zambia (Kagem mine) is now the world's largest producer by volume, known for darker, more bluish-green stones with excellent clarity. Brazil , Afghanistan , Ethiopia , and Pakistan also produce significant emerald. Cleopatra was famously devoted to emeralds — the ancient Egyptian mines near the Red Sea (now called Cleopatra's Mines) were the world's primary source for nearly two millennia. Natural inclusions in emerald are expected and even valued by collectors — a completely flawless emerald is exceedingly rare. Our specimens include raw crystals on matrix, natural points, and collector-grade pieces. Browse related gems in our Aquamarine collection (same beryl family), or compare with Green Crystals , Malachite , and Peridot . Free shipping on orders over $150. Frequently Asked Questions What is emerald? Emerald is the green variety of the mineral beryl, colored by chromium and sometimes vanadium. It is one of the four traditional precious gemstones. It rates 7.5–8 on the Mohs hardness scale and crystallizes in the hexagonal system. Where do emeralds come from? Colombia produces the most valued emeralds (Muzo, Chivor mines). Zambia is the largest producer by volume. Brazil, Afghanistan, Ethiopia, Pakistan, and Russia also produce emerald. Colombia's stones are