Do Emeralds Change Color Over Time?
If you own an emerald or are thinking about buying one, you’ve probably wondered at some point: do emeralds change color over time? It’s a completely valid question. When we talk about precious gemstones, we all want their beauty to be eternal — that intense green that made us fall in love should look just as spectacular years later.
Emeralds are natural gemstones formed millions of years ago under very specific geological conditions. Their color is not something superficial; it’s not a layer that can easily wear off. It is part of their internal structure. So when you hear that an emerald “changed color,” there is usually something else behind it.
Colombian Emeralds: The Finest Green in the World
When we talk about emeralds, we inevitably talk about Colombia. Colombian emeralds are considered the finest and most valuable in the world because of their color, purity, and brilliance. Regions such as Muzo, Chivor, and Coscuez have produced some of the most famous stones ever discovered.
What makes a Colombian emerald special is its pure and vibrant green. It is not a dull dark green or an overly yellowish green. It is a balanced, deep, and luminous green. This intensity comes from the presence of chromium and vanadium in its composition — the elements responsible for that highly desired tone in the international market.
What Colors Do Colombian Emeralds Come In?
Although we often imagine emeralds as just one type of green, they actually come in different shades. Here they are clearly explained:
Deep or intense green
The most valuable shade. A strong, saturated, and uniform green. It has great presence and is the most sought-after in high jewelry.
Bright or vivid green
Very luminous with excellent transparency. It looks “alive” under the light.
Slightly bluish green
Has a cool undertone. This blue hint adds elegance and is highly appreciated.
Slightly yellowish green
Warmer in tone. While less valuable than pure green, it is still beautiful and natural.
Light green
A softer, more delicate shade. Ideal for modern and youthful designs.
Do Emeralds Change Color Over Time?
A natural emerald does not change color over time. Its tone is part of its crystalline structure. It is not paint, not a surface coating, not something that fades away. Decades can pass, and it will still remain green.
However, what can happen is that the emerald may appear duller. This can be due to:
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Accumulation of grease or dirt
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Surface damage from impacts
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Wear of oil or resin used in previous treatments
Here’s the key point: many emeralds (including Colombian ones) receive treatments with natural oils or resins to enhance their appearance and minimize visible inclusions. If that treatment deteriorates over time, the stone may look different. But this does not mean its natural color has changed — it means the treatment has altered.
What Should I Do If My Emerald “Changed” Color?
If you notice a change, don’t panic. Here are 10 practical tips:
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Do not clean it with strong chemicals
Harsh products can affect previous treatments. -
Avoid ultrasonic cleaners
Emeralds should not be cleaned in ultrasonic machines. -
Clean only with warm water and mild soap
Use a very soft brush. -
Dry it with a clean, soft cloth
Avoid rough towels. -
Take it to a professional gemologist
Only an expert can determine whether the change is superficial or treatment-related. -
Ask whether it has oil or resin treatment
This is key to understanding the “change.” -
Do not attempt to re-treat it yourself
Never use household oils. -
Avoid prolonged heat exposure
Heat can affect treatments. -
Store it separately from other jewelry
To prevent scratches. -
Schedule professional maintenance periodically
An expert can rehydrate the stone if necessary.
Emerald By Love: The Finest Colombian Emeralds
If you are looking for an authentic, natural emerald of exceptional quality, Emerald By Love works exclusively with carefully selected Colombian emeralds. Each stone is evaluated to guarantee its color, origin, and beauty.
We understand that an emerald is not just a jewel — it is an investment, a legacy, and a story. That’s why we guide you in its care, maintenance, and authenticity. When you choose a high-quality emerald, you choose a green that will not fade over time.
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 the most important jewelry houses in Bogotá, Emerald by Love, a company with more than 40 years of experience in emeralds and two physical stores located in downtown Bogotá, Colombia.
