The Ultimate Guide to Colombian Emeralds
Emeralds are one of the “Big Four” precious gemstones, alongside Diamonds, Rubies, and Sapphires. Among them, Colombian Emeralds are considered amongst the finest in the world due to their exceptional colour, clarity, and provenance.
Colombia has been the world’s largest producer of Emeralds for centuries and remains synonymous with high-quality emeralds.
Historical Background
Pre-Columbian Era: Indigenous Muzo and Chibcha peoples were mining emeralds long before the Spanish conquest. The stones were used in trade and ceremonial rituals.
Spanish Conquest: In the 1500s, Spanish conquistadors learned of the emerald mines and began extracting gems to send back to Europe, sparking global demand.
Modern Era: Today, Colombia produces over 50% of the world’s emerald supply, with the most prized stones coming from a few legendary mines.
Why are Colombian Emeralds Special?
Colour: Rich, vibrant green to slightly bluish-green with high saturation and medium to medium-dark tone.
Clarity: Typically cleaner than emeralds from other countries; however, most still have natural inclusions, often referred to as the emerald’s “jardín” (garden).
Formation: Unique hydrothermal formation in black shale and limestone gives Colombian emeralds their signature look, unlike the magmatic-hosted emeralds of other countries.
Grading Colombian Emeralds
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Colour
A critical factor in the rarity and value of an Emerald. Top-quality Colombian Emeralds have intense green colour with even saturation and no moderating hue.
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Clarity
Emeralds typically have many inclusions, commonly termed ‘jardin,’ eye-clean stones are very rare and highly valuable.
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Cut
Due to their naturally brittle nature, Emeralds are typically shaped to reduce stress on the stone and minimize waste. The iconic Emerald cut, characterised by its elegant step facets.
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Carat Weight
Larger stones are rarer and command higher prices, especially with the most desired colour and high clarity.
Are Colombian Emeralds Rare?
While Colombia remains the world’s leading source of emeralds, and Colombian emeralds are widely available, the original veins that produced those iconic, vivid green stones, especially in larger sizes, have largely been depleted.
Today, most emeralds on the market are enhanced through common treatments to improve their clarity. As a result, finding a natural, untreated Colombian emerald is uncommon, and discovering one that is both untreated and of exceptional size and colour is rare.
Major Colombian Emerald Mines
Muzo: Known for producing highly prized vivid green emeralds of exceptional clarity and with warm undertones.
Chivor: Emeralds are generally slightly lighter than Muzo Emeralds, with a slight bluish-green hues and high clarity
Coscuez: Offers a range of emerald qualities and is currently experiencing renewed exploration and production.
Treatments and Enhancements
Oiling & Resin: Almost all emeralds are treated with cedarwood oil or synthetic resins to enhance clarity and the durability of an Emerald. They are generally graded into three categories:
Minor: Small amounts of oil or resin have been used, with minimal impact on the stone's natural appearance.
Moderate: Noticeable treatment has improved clarity, but the emerald still retains much of its original character.
Significant: Extensive treatment has been applied, with a substantial impact on the stone’s clarity and visual appeal.
Tips for Purchasing Colombian Emeralds
Buy from Trusted Sources: Select a trusted jeweller with accredited in-house gemmologists with the expertise to discern the nuanced qualities that define the true value and rarity of an exceptional emerald.
Inquire About Treatment Levels: A reputable company should be able to talk you through any treatments an Emerald may have had, as well as explaining the laboratory reports accompanying a gemstones, if applicable
Keep an open mind: Finding the perfect emerald is often about discovering a stone that captivates you, while balancing factors like size, quality, origin, and treatment within your budget.
Caring for Your Colombian Emeralds
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Avoid Harsh Cleaners
Due to the delicate nature of Emeralds, never use ultrasonic or steam cleaners; stick to lukewarm soapy water and a very soft brush.
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Store Carefully
Emeralds are soft at 7.5-8.0 on the Mohs scale of hardness, so they can be scratched relatively easily. They are also brittle stones, so they can be chipped by other jewellery items, so it is recommended to store your pieces separately.
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Wear with Care
Emeralds are naturally more delicate than other gemstones, so it’s a good idea to take them off during everyday tasks to help preserve their beauty over time.
Colombian Emeralds are world renowned for representing the pinnacle of emerald quality and beauty. Understanding their origins, features, and care is essential to making a wise and lasting purchase.
Their unique charm, marked by vivid green hues and rich history, continues to captivate gem lovers and collectors around the world