How to Identify Emerald Gems
- 1). Look at your sample to see what color it is. Emeralds are green, although the hue may vary.
- 2). Examine to see if your sample has a vitreous luster. Light should reflect off the surface of the mineral to give it a glassy look.
- 3). Rub the mineral firmly across a porcelain streak plate. It is recommended that you choose a dark-colored streak plate. An emerald will leave a white streak.
- 4). Test the hardness by carefully attempting to scratch it with a steel knife and an emery cloth. According to the book, "Rock and Gem", Emeralds have a hardness of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs' hardness scale, meaning that they are relatively resistant to scratches. A steel knife will not scratch an emerald, but an emery cloth will.