Discover this natural emerald–beryl crystal, a rare mineral specimen sourced from the renowned gemstone regions of Pakistan. This single-piece emerald weighs 19.12 grams and showcases a beautifully developed hexagonal crystal structure, making it an outstanding addition for mineral collectors, crystal enthusiasts, and gemstone investors.

The specimen measures approximately 32 × 30 × 20 mm and displays an opaque and translucent to semi-transparent clarity, revealing natural internal features typical of high-quality beryl. Its vivid green tones and untouched crystalline form reflect true earth-mined authenticity. This emerald is 100% natural, with no treatments except minor natural oiling that is commonly present in emeralds from the source.

Representing the May birthstone, this fine mineral specimen carries both gemological value and cultural significance. It is graded in excellent condition and classified as rare, offering remarkable aesthetic appeal and scientific importance. Verified genuine and preserved on its natural matrix, this emerald is perfect for collectors, display cabinets, healing crystal lovers, and high-end gemstone enthusiasts.

This specimen features a well-formed emerald crystal (Be₃Al₂Si₆O₁₈) displaying a classic hexagonal prismatic habit with sharp growth striations along the c-axis. The vivid green coloration results from chromium enrichment within the beryl lattice, typical of hydrothermal–metamorphic emeralds from the Swat Valley, Pakistan. The crystal is semi-transparent with internal fluid inclusions, healed fissures, and minor iron-oxide staining—natural indicators of unheated, untreated origin. It is hosted on a matrix composed primarily of dolomite and calcite with associated talc–chlorite alteration, characteristic of the Swat emerald mineralization formed at ~300–500°C in Be-rich hydrothermal veins along contact-metamorphic zones. The crystal’s luster, zoning, and intact matrix attachment make it a scientifically valuable example of chromium-bearing beryl from one of the world’s most geologically significant emerald deposits.

Emerald on Dolomite Matrix

Swat Valley, Pakistan
A vivid green hexagonal emerald crystal of chromium-rich beryl showing strong prismatic striations and natural zoning. Semi-transparent with typical Swat hydrothermal inclusions and minor iron-oxide veining, hosted on white dolomite–calcite matrix with talc–chlorite alteration. A representative specimen from the world-famous Swat emerald deposit.

Premium Collector’s Certificate-Style Description

CERTIFICATE OF MINERAL SPECIMEN – EMERALD (Cr-Beryl)
Origin: Swat Valley, Mingora–Fizagat Belt, Pakistan
Composition: Be₃Al₂Si₆O₁₈ (Chromium-bearing Beryl)
Crystal System: Hexagonal
Formation: Hydrothermal–metamorphic contact zone (approx. 300–500°C)

Collector's Note: This specimen exhibits exceptional crystallographic features including visible hexagonal symmetry, natural growth striations, and pristine termination faces. The emerald's position within the matrix demonstrates in-situ formation, providing valuable insight into the geological processes that created these remarkable crystals in the metamorphic rocks of the Swat region.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Swat emerald crystal scientifically significant for collectors and geologists?

This specimen demonstrates exceptional hexagonal crystal morphology with well-preserved natural faces and terminations, providing valuable insight into beryl crystallization processes within pegmatitic-hydrothermal environments. The presence of the host matrix (feldspar or calcite) offers geological context about formation conditions, while the crystal's size, clarity zones, and chromium-induced coloration make it an excellent reference specimen for studying emerald genesis in metamorphic terrains. The Swat Valley origin adds provenance value, as this region produces some of the world's finest emerald crystals from Himalayan metamorphic deposits.

How should I care for and preserve this natural emerald crystal specimen?

Store the specimen in a stable environment away from direct sunlight, extreme temperature fluctuations, and high humidity to prevent matrix degradation and potential crystal stress fractures. Handle with clean hands or cotton gloves to avoid transferring oils or contaminants to the crystal surfaces. If minor oil treatment has been applied, avoid ultrasonic cleaners or harsh chemicals that could remove protective oils. Display in a cushioned case or on a stable platform to prevent physical damage. For long-term preservation, maintain consistent temperature (18-22°C) and relative humidity (40-50%) to protect both the emerald crystal and its matrix material.

What geological processes created this emerald crystal formation in Swat, Pakistan?

This emerald crystal formed during the Himalayan orogeny through hydrothermal and pegmatitic processes within metamorphic host rocks. Beryllium-rich fluids interacted with chromium and vanadium-bearing minerals under high temperature and pressure conditions, allowing beryl crystals to nucleate and grow within fractures and cavities. The hexagonal crystal structure developed as silicon, aluminum, and beryllium ions arranged themselves in the characteristic trigonal system, while trace chromium substituted for aluminum in the crystal lattice, producing the emerald's green color. The feldspar or calcite matrix represents either the pegmatitic host rock or secondary mineralization that occurred alongside emerald formation, preserving the crystal in its natural geological context.