Colombian Crystal Emeralds: Are They Really Emeralds?
Colombian crystal emeralds are one of the most appreciated varieties in the gemstone world due to their exceptional purity and beauty. However, a question arises when we wonder if these stones, so clear, are still considered emeralds or if they can be classified as a different category.
In this article, we explore what makes Colombian crystal emeralds so special, why they are so clear, and if they maintain their identity as emeralds.
What is a Colombian Crystal Emerald?
A Colombian crystal emerald is a variety of emerald characterized by its superior clarity and remarkable transparency. Unlike traditional emeralds, which often have visible inclusions that affect their transparency, crystal emeralds present greater purity, giving them a cleaner and brighter appearance.
The Colombian crystal emerald is a precious stone that retains all the physical and chemical properties of an emerald, but with a distinctive feature: its translucency.
Characteristics of Colombian Crystal Emeralds
The characteristics of a crystal emerald are as follows:
- High Clarity: Crystal emeralds have fewer inclusions compared to traditional emeralds, which gives them greater transparency and purity.
- Exceptional Transparency: Thanks to their lower number of impurities, these emeralds allow more light to pass through, enhancing their natural brightness.
- Intense Green Color: Despite their high clarity, they retain the characteristic green color of emeralds, produced by chromium and vanadium, making them very attractive.
- Colombian Origin: Most crystal emeralds come from the Muzo and Chivor mines in Colombia, known for producing some of the highest quality emeralds in the world.
- Precise Cut: These emeralds are carefully cut to maximize their clarity and beauty, allowing light to reflect optimally.
- Chemical Composition: Like all emeralds, they are mainly composed of beryllium, aluminum, and chromium, but with fewer impurities, contributing to their clarity.
- Rare and Exclusive: They are rarer than conventional emeralds due to their higher level of purity and transparency, making them more valuable in the market.
- Intense Shine: Their transparency allows for a greater reflection of light, resulting in an intense brightness and vivid glow.
Why Are Crystal Emeralds So Clear?
Crystal emeralds are clearer than other Colombian emeralds due to the geological conditions and natural processes involved in their formation. In Colombian mines, emeralds are formed from a combination of elements such as beryllium, aluminum, and chromium, which are essential for the characteristic green color of these stones. However, what distinguishes crystal emeralds is their lower number of internal inclusions, giving them exceptional transparency and clarity.
Instead of the typical inclusions found in other emeralds, crystal emeralds present a cleaner appearance, allowing light to reflect intensely.
Are Crystal Emeralds Still Emeralds?
Yes, crystal emeralds are still emeralds, though with certain differences in clarity. While their transparency is greater and their color may be slightly lighter than traditional emeralds, they still retain the properties that define emeralds.
The term "crystal emerald" does not imply that these stones are different in composition, but rather refers to their superior clarity. Therefore, while crystal emeralds are more transparent and clearer than conventional emeralds, they remain emeralds in essence.
Find the Best Colombian Crystal Emeralds at Emerald by Love
If you're looking for the highest quality Colombian crystal emerald, Emerald by Love is the perfect place for you. This specialized store offers an exclusive selection of Colombian emeralds, including the purest and brightest crystal varieties. With special attention to detail and a commitment to quality, Emerald by Love ensures that every emerald they sell is a masterpiece of nature. Whether you're looking for a unique piece for your collection or a custom-made jewel, at Emerald by Love, you'll find the best of Colombian crystal emeralds.
Paula A. Bonilla
Social communicator and journalist from Sergio Arboleda University in Colombia. She is also a jeweler and is passionate about continuously learning about precious gemstones and national high jewelry.
Currently, she works for one of the most important jewelers in Bogotá, Emerald by Love. This jewelry store has over 40 years of experience and has two physical branches in the capital of Colombia, located in the city center.
