What is a natural emerald? While Emeralds are one of the most recognized and prized gems in the world, very few really understand what sets it apart or even the basic distinctions. We will discuss the common things to know and look for, but also talk about the more unique and interesting aspects of Emeralds.

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Emerald Basics:
Green- there are other colors of
Beryl(pink-morganite,Blue Aquamarine)
Chromium-main green element
sometimes Vanadium
Most valuable often have a slightly bluish tone.
hexagonal crystal habit- rare to find nice specimens
7.5-8 MOHs hardness
More fragile because of inclusions. (Class III gem)

other things to watch out for-

-Treatments

-Lab Grown(Chatham)

-imitations-glass, dyed natural stones(including beryl)

-Egyptians had glass imitations of Emerald


other interesting facts-
Most emeralds came from Columbia-since found all over the world with notable finds in Zambia Afghanistan, Australia, Pakistan, Russia, and the United States.
Brazilian colored with vanadium was a real controversy.
some purists believed it is only Emerald if colored by Chromium. GIA alloyed Vanadium gems to be included.

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