Colombian Emeralds at International Auctions: Record Prices

Colombian emeralds have conquered the world of international auctions, reaching record prices and establishing themselves as some of the most coveted gemstones.

If you love emeralds and want to learn more about their value in the global market or discover the historical records set in auctions, keep reading.

What Is an International Emerald Auction?

International auctions of Colombian emeralds are events organized by renowned auction houses, where exclusive gems and jewelry pieces are presented for bidders from all over the world. These auctions feature not only raw emeralds but also iconic jewelry set with these precious stones.

The appeal of Colombian emeralds in these events lies in their intense color, purity, and legendary origin. Buyers seek gemstones with certified provenance and unique characteristics, which drive prices into the millions.

How Does an International Emerald Auction Work?

The auction process begins with expert selection of Colombian emeralds by the auction house. The emeralds are then authenticated and evaluated based on criteria such as color, clarity, cut, and carat weight (CT). The rarest and highest-quality gems are included in exclusive catalogs.

Buyers—including collectors, investors, and luxury jewelers—participate in auctions either in person, over the phone, or online. Bidding starts at a base price and increases until the highest bidder wins the piece. On several occasions, Colombian emeralds have set record prices, exceeding all expectations.

Colombian Emeralds Sold at International Auctions

Throughout history, several Colombian emeralds have taken center stage in international auctions. Some of the most notable include:

1. The Rockefeller Emerald

   • Origin: Colombia
   • Weight: 18.04 carats
   • Sale price: $5.5 million (2017)
   • Features: Intense green color, high clarity, rectangular step cut

2. Catherine the Great’s Emerald

   • Origin: Colombia
   • Weight: 75.61 carats
   • Sale price: $4.3 million (2019)
   • Features: Exceptional purity and size, part of a historic tiara

3. Tiara of Princess Katharina Henckel von Donnersmarck

   • Origin: Colombia
   • Features: Tiara with 11 high-quality emeralds set in gold and silver
   • Weight: Approximately 500 carats in total
   • Sale price: $12.7 million
   • Auctioned at: Sotheby’s (2011, Geneva)

4. Colombian Emerald Earrings

   • Origin: Colombia
   • Features: Pair of emerald and diamond earrings set in white gold
   • Weight: 47.21 carats total
   • Sale price: $3.07 million
   • Auctioned at: Christie’s (2011, Geneva)

5. Ring with Emerald from the Nuestra Señora de Atocha Galleon

   • Origin: Colombia (recovered from the sunken Spanish galleon)
   • Features: Natural emerald set in a gold ring
   • Weight: 5.27 carats
   • Sale price: $1.197 million
   • Auctioned at: New York (2022)

Record Prices in International Auctions

Among the emeralds sold at record-breaking prices, the Rockefeller Emerald stands out, selling for $305,000 per carat and setting a new market standard. The demand for Colombian emeralds continues to rise, with new pieces competing each year to break historical records.

Find Exclusive Emeralds with Emerald by Love

If you’re looking for emeralds worthy of an international auction, Emerald by Love is the ideal choice. With a selection of exceptional-quality gemstones and high-end jewelry designs, you’ll find unique pieces that reflect the beauty of Colombian emeralds.

Whether you’re searching for an investment-worthy jewel or a luxurious emerald engagement ring, Emerald by Love guarantees authenticity and exclusivity in every piece. Discover the charm of Colombian emeralds and find your perfect jewel!

Paula A. Bonilla
Social communicator and journalist from Universidad Sergio Arboleda in Colombia. She is also a jeweler with a deep passion for constantly learning about precious gemstones and high-end 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 the capital of Colombia, situated in the city center.