Are There Laws Related to Colombian Emeralds?

Colombian emeralds are globally recognized for their quality and beauty. However, their history has been marked by conflicts and regulations aimed at controlling their exploitation and commercialization.

In this article, we explore the legislation surrounding these precious stones, the origins of these laws, and some of the most important regulations governing emerald extraction in Colombia.

The Green War in Colombia

Between the 1960s and 1990s, Colombia experienced a violent conflict known as the "Green War." This confrontation occurred between illegal armed groups, independent miners, and companies seeking control over emerald mines, primarily in the Boyacá department. The dispute led to hundreds of deaths and a security crisis in the country's emerald-producing regions.

The Origin of Laws on Emeralds in Colombia

Due to the violence of the "Green War" and the lack of regulation in emerald mining, the Colombian government implemented a series of laws to establish a legal framework that would promote peace and development in the sector.

These regulations were created to oversee mining activities, prevent conflicts, and ensure that emerald extraction would benefit both the state and local communities.

Main Laws on Emeralds in Colombia

Over the years, various regulations have been implemented in the Colombian emerald sector. Some of the most notable ones include:

• Mining Code (Law 685 of 2001): This law establishes general rules for the exploration and exploitation of mineral resources in Colombia, including emeralds. It regulates the legal relationships between the state and private entities engaged in mining activities.

• Law 1382 of 2010: This law modified the Mining Code to make mining activities more sustainable. However, it is important to note that the Constitutional Court declared this law unconstitutional in 2011, so it is no longer in effect.

• Law 160 of 1994: This law relates to land allocation and regulation in areas where minerals, including emeralds, are extracted.

• Creation of the National Emerald Board: This is a dialogue platform established by the mining sector and the government, though it is not necessarily formalized through a specific law or decree.

• Decree 2715 of 1995: This decree regulates the oversight and control of emerald commercialization in Colombia.

• Decree 2637 of 2012: This decree implements measures to formalize emerald mining and reduce illegal exploitation.

• Law 2056 of 2020: This law regulates the distribution of royalties from mining, including emeralds. It establishes the new General Royalties System in Colombia.

The laws on emeralds in Colombia have been essential in regulating the sector and preventing conflicts such as the Green War. Thanks to these regulations, emerald extraction is now more controlled, benefiting both the country's economy and mining communities.

If you're looking for the finest Colombian emeralds with guaranteed quality and provenance, visit Emerald By Love, where you'll find certified gemstones of the highest purity.

Paula A. Bonilla

Social communicator and journalist from Universidad Sergio Arboleda in Colombia. She is also a jeweler with a passion for continuously learning about precious gems and high-end national jewelry.

She currently works for one of Bogotá's most prestigious jewelry stores, Emerald by Love, which has over 40 years of experience and two physical locations in Colombia’s capital, situated in the city center.