Hyaline cartilage. Coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of hyaline cartilage from the spinal column. Hyaline cartilage is a type of connective tissue that consists of an extracellular matrix (yellow) produced by chondrocytes (grey), the only cells found in cartilage. Single chondrocytes reside in lacunae (holes). Hyaline cartilage coats parts of the vertebrae of the spine, reducing friction between the vertebrae and allowing flexibility. Hyaline cartilage is found coating other joints, as well as providing structural support to the nose and trachea (windpipe). Magnification: x70 when printed 10 centimetres wide.