How Emeralds Form | 3 Unique Ways!
How Emeralds Form | 3 Unique Ways!
In today's episode, geologist/gemologist Elizabeth digs deep into the origins of May's birthstone, emerald. Find out what makes Colombian emeralds natural wonders. Learn how elements and processes in different parts of the world result in distinctly colored stones. Maybe even discover a gem locale in your backyard that is a rare source of these cherished green gemstones.
Emerald is one of the "big three" prominent valuable gemstones, along with ruby and sapphire. This beryllium aluminum silicate gemstone's color is derived from chromium or vanadium (or both). Emerald is a valuable and sought-after gemstone for jewelry wearing; it ranks 7.5 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it suitable for jewelry wearing. This birthstone can even be found and mined all over the globe, although there are only three significant emerald sources. Colombia, Zambia, and Brazil are currently the main emerald origins, although Colombia accounts for roughly 70% of the emerald market. There are many emerald species; some notable forms include Colombian Emerald, Brazillian Emerald, Cat's Eye Emerald, Trapiche Emerald, and more. Watch and learn about all of the emerald forms in this video.
