Emerald the green variety of the mineral beryl, is the most famous and favored
green gemstone. Its beautiful green color, combined with durability and rarity, make it one of the most valuable gemstones.
Pure beryl is white; emerald’s green color is caused by chromium impurities and occasionally by vanadium impurities. Deep green is the most desired color in emeralds.
Emerald is regarded as the traditional birthstone for May, as well as the traditional gemstone for the astrological signs of Taurus and Cancer.
Color Emerald-green to dark green
Hardness 7½
Mineral class Beryl
Composition Be3Al2SiO6
