Emeralds are gem-quality specimens of the beryl mineral family with a rich, distinctly green color. They are found in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks in a small number of locations worldwide. For over 5000 years, emeralds have been one of the most desirable and valuable colored gemstones.
For example, the Agway Elevator was built on a concrete mat 3 feet thick which in turn rests on a natural foundation of stiff clay. But whatever the foundation for the elevator was, be it wood pilings or concrete slabs, construction of the elevator itself could begin once the base was completed.
Pier and Beam Foundations. A pier and beam (sometimes called post and beam) foundation involves wood posts or concrete piers set into the ground and bearing the weight of the building on foundation beams. While easier to build and less costly than the more common perimeter concrete foundation, it is best used for smaller buildings on building sites with a low likelihood of earthquake or hurricane force winds.