Colombian Emeralds: How Resistant Are They?

Beyond their beauty, there is one common question among those who acquire a natural Colombian emerald: how resistant are emeralds really?

Unlike diamonds, known for their extreme hardness, emeralds require special care. In this article, we explain how they are formed, their physical characteristics, their level of resistance, and what to do if your emerald develops a crack. Plus, we’ll tell you how Emerald by Love can help you preserve and repair your most precious jewel.

How Are Emeralds Formed?

Emeralds form under very specific geological conditions. In the case of Colombian emeralds, their formation is unique in the world: they don’t form like other gems, but rather in hydrothermal deposits within sedimentary rocks. This occurs when fluids rich in beryllium and other minerals seep between rock layers, giving birth to these green gems over millions of years.

This slow and complex process explains why every emerald is unique, with inclusions that tell its story. Colombia has the privilege of holding the perfect conditions to produce the most valued emeralds in the world, known for their purity, color, and rarity.

Physical Characteristics of Emeralds

Here are some of their most relevant traits:

• Color: Deep green, ranging from light tones to intense bluish-greens.

• Luster: Soft but luminous, especially when well-cut.

• Transparency: Most contain natural inclusions.

• Durability: Good, but susceptible to fractures due to their internal structure.

• Inclusions: Known as “gardens,” they are common and don’t necessarily reduce the stone’s value.

How Resistant Are Colombian Emeralds?

Although emeralds have relatively high hardness, their resistance isn’t as strong when it comes to impacts, drops, or improper pressure during jewelry setting. Their internal structure contains natural microscopic fractures that make them more vulnerable to breakage compared to other stones like sapphire or diamond.

That’s why it’s crucial to protect emeralds from falls, pressure, or knocks. The jewelry setting also plays a key role: an emerald that’s well-protected by its mount will be less likely to get damaged. And if it does develop a crack, there are professional solutions to repair it.

What to Do If an Emerald Cracks?

If your emerald is damaged, don’t panic. Here are some recommended steps:

• Avoid wearing it immediately to prevent worsening the crack.

• Take it to a gem expert, preferably one with experience in emeralds.

• Assess the level of damage — not all cracks will affect the gem long-term.

• Ask about treatments such as oiling or repolishing.

• Consider a new setting that offers better protection.

• Store it in a padded case, away from other jewelry.

Emerald by Love: Experts in Colombian Emeralds

At Emerald by Love, we understand the emotional and material value of a Colombian emerald. That’s why we offer specialized emerald restoration and repair services, performed by experts. Whether your stone needs cleaning, re-oiling, repolishing, or a new protective setting, we’re here to restore its full splendor.

Paula A. Bonilla
Social communicator and journalist from Sergio Arboleda University in Colombia. Passionate about constantly learning about precious gems and fine Colombian jewelry.
She currently works for one of Bogotá’s most renowned jewelers, Emerald by Love, a brand with over 40 years of experience and two physical locations in Colombia’s capital, located in the city center.