Colombian Emeralds: Myths and Realities
Many things are said about fake Colombian emeralds. Among all the rumors, some are true, while others are pure myths. In over 40 years of experience, we’ve heard countless stories — from emeralds being nothing more than colored glass to claims that emeralds from other countries are just as good as Colombian ones.
At Emerald By Love, we want to help you protect your purchase and better understand the truth about Colombian emeralds. That’s why we created this article — to answer questions like: Why are Colombian emeralds considered the best in the world? And what are the most common myths and truths surrounding this precious gem?
Why are Colombian emeralds the best in the world?
Colombian emeralds are internationally renowned for their intense green color, purity, and superior quality. Thanks to the unique geological conditions of the Colombian Andes, these gemstones have a deep, vibrant green hue not found anywhere else on Earth.
But it’s not just about beauty. These stones have been valued since pre-Columbian times by indigenous cultures, and today they remain one of Colombia’s most admired natural treasures. If you're looking for an authentic gem with the deepest green, a Colombian emerald is undoubtedly a special choice.
Myths and Realities About Colombian Emeralds
Myth: Colombian emeralds are always perfect False
Reality: Natural emeralds usually have inclusions or "gardens," which make each stone unique and prove their natural origin.
Myth: Colombian emeralds are fragile True
Reality: They have good durability but require care, such as avoiding hard impacts and exposure to chemicals.
Myth: It’s impossible to know if an emerald is Colombian False
Reality: With a gemological certificate and expert analysis, it is possible to verify its origin.
Myth: All emeralds look the same False
Reality: Each emerald is unique in tone, shape, and clarity — that’s part of their charm.
Myth: Colombian emeralds are the best in the world True
Reality: Due to their brilliance, deep green color, and quality, they are considered the most beautiful emeralds globally.
Myth: Emeralds have no resale value False
Reality: High-quality emeralds with proper certification do retain and can even increase their value over time.
Myth: Only large emeralds are valuable False
Reality: Value depends more on quality than size. A small but vivid emerald can be very valuable.
Myth: If an emerald has no inclusions, it’s fake True
Reality: Inclusions, or "gardens," are signs of authenticity and natural origin in Colombian emeralds.
Myth: Colombian emeralds are always very expensive False
Reality: There are options for different budgets, without sacrificing authenticity or beauty.
Myth: Emeralds are not suitable for everyday wear It depends
Reality: With proper care, an emerald can be worn daily and become part of your style with elegance.
Emerald By Love: Want to learn more about Colombian emeralds?
Emerald By Love is much more than a jewelry store. We specialize in 100% Colombian emeralds, carefully selected from their origin in the mines to become unique jewels full of history and natural beauty.
Do you want to learn more about Colombian emeralds? At Emerald By Love, we’ll guide you through everything — from their origin and quality to the myths, care, and characteristics that make them the best emeralds in the world.
Paula A. Bonilla
Social communicator and journalist from Universidad Sergio Arboleda in Colombia. Passionate about continuously learning about precious gemstones and fine national jewelry.
She currently works for one of Bogotá’s most important jewelry stores, Emerald By Love, which has over 40 years of experience and two physical locations in the capital city, located in the downtown area.
