Euclase: The Blue Emeralds of Colombia

Colombia is not only the land of the world’s most beautiful emeralds—it also holds other hidden treasures within its mountains. Among them is a little-known yet fascinating gemstone: euclase, often referred to as the “blue emerald” due to its brilliance, rarity, and origin in the same mining regions of the country.

Its bluish-green tone, exceptional transparency, and extreme scarcity have made it a coveted gem among collectors and high-end jewelers. In this article, you’ll discover what euclase is, how it forms, its main characteristics, how it differs from emeralds, and where you can acquire a genuine Colombian euclase.

What is Euclase?

Euclase is an extremely rare gemstone composed of beryllium and aluminum silicate. Its name derives from the Greek words eu (easy) and klasis (to break), referring to its natural fragility and tendency to fracture easily.

In Colombia, euclase is found within the same geological formations as emeralds—particularly in the mining zones of Boyacá, Coscuez, and Muzo. Its color ranges from sky blue to bluish green and turquoise, displaying a vibrant shine even under natural light.

How is Euclase Formed?

Euclase forms in hydrothermal environments, where beryllium- and aluminum-rich fluids crystallize in fractures and cavities within metamorphic rocks. In Colombia, this process occurs under the same conditions that give birth to emeralds, which explains their close geological relationship.

Over millions of years, minerals cool slowly, allowing euclase to crystallize into elongated prismatic structures, quite similar to those of beryl. This slow and precise natural process results in high purity and the gem’s stunning blue hues.

Euclase Characteristics

• Color: Light blue, bluish green, or deep blue

• Composition: Beryllium and aluminum silicate

• Fracture: Perfect cleavage, requiring careful cutting

• Origin: Most notable deposits are in Colombia

• Rarity: Even rarer than emeralds

• Uses: Fine jewelry and gemstone collecting

• Light Behavior: Reflects bright flashes and deep tones under direct light

• Value: High, due to its rarity and optical purity

Colombian Emeralds vs. Colombian Euclase

Similarities:

• Form under similar geological conditions

• Both contain beryllium as a base element

• Found in the same Colombian mines

• Highly valued for their brilliance and transparency

Differences:

• Color: Emeralds are green; euclase is blue or bluish green

• Hardness: Emerald scores 8 on the Mohs scale; euclase 7.5

• Fragility: Euclase is more delicate and challenging to cut

• Rarity: Euclase is far rarer than emeralds

• Composition: Emeralds contain chromium and vanadium; euclase does not

• Jewelry Use: Emeralds are more common in rings; euclase is often set in pendants or reserved for collectors

Where to Buy a Colombian Euclase

Authentic euclase is extremely difficult to find, as its extraction is limited and it often appears as a secondary discovery in emerald mines. For that reason, purchasing a genuine piece requires working with certified jewelers or gemologists who specialize in Colombian gemstones.

On the international market, Colombian euclase is renowned for its purity and vivid brilliance. Demand has grown among collectors and designers seeking exclusive alternatives to traditional gems.

Emerald By Love: Beyond Colombian Emeralds

At Emerald By Love, we specialize in 100% authentic Colombian emerald jewelry—but we also honor the unique beauty of rare gems like euclase. These “blue emeralds” are a rare treasure that reflects the mineral diversity of Colombia and the magic of its land.

If you wish to discover the charm of Colombian euclase or explore our exclusive emerald collections, we invite you to visit Emerald By Love, where every gemstone tells a story and every jewel is born from a love for authenticity.

Paula A. Bonilla
Social communicator and journalist from Sergio Arboleda University in Colombia. Passionate about learning everything related to precious gems and fine Colombian jewelry. Currently working for one of Bogotá’s most prestigious jewelry houses, Emerald by Love, with over 40 years of experience and two physical stores in the heart of the Colombian capital.