How Light Changes the Color of a Colombian Emerald

The color of a Colombian emerald is one of nature’s most captivating wonders. However, what many people don’t realize is that light can completely transform how we perceive its hue, brilliance, and transparency. The same stone can appear more vivid under natural daylight and look duller under artificial lighting.

That’s why, if you’re looking for an emerald jewel or a rough stone, it’s essential to learn how to observe it correctly. At Emerald By Love, we’ll explain how lighting affects a gem’s appearance and share essential tips to view emeralds without being misled by light.

Colombian Emeralds: The Most Beautiful Green in the World

Colombian emeralds are world-famous for their pure, deep, and luminous green color. Their beauty comes from a unique combination of geological conditions found only in the mines of Muzo, Chivor, and Coscuez, located in the heart of Colombia.

This exceptional green—sometimes with bluish or yellowish undertones—is not only a symbol of luxury and elegance but also a reflection of Colombia’s energy, history, and natural richness. Each emerald is different, but all share one thing in common: their vibrant, transparent, and lively color.

Key Characteristics of Colombian Emeralds

• Intense green color: Unique shades ranging from emerald green to bluish-green.

• High transparency: Naturally lets light pass through, enhancing inner glow.

• Natural inclusions (“gardens”): Tiny marks that confirm their genuine origin.

• Exclusive geological origin: Formed over millions of years in the Andes Mountains.

• Velvety brilliance: A soft, warm reflection that distinguishes Colombian emeralds.

• Global rarity: The most valued by jewelers and collectors worldwide.

• Durability: Though delicate, they offer good resistance with proper care.

• Natural energy: Associated with love, prosperity, and renewal.

Light Can Change the Perceived Quality of an Emerald

Lighting directly affects how an emerald appears to the eye. In a very dark setting, it may look dull and lose some of its brilliance. On the other hand, under overly intense or yellow lighting, its color may look distorted—appearing lighter or even yellowish.

That’s why experts recommend examining emeralds under natural daylight, preferably in the morning or late afternoon, when the light is most neutral and reveals the gem’s true color. Additionally, the temperature of the light (cool or warm) can either highlight or mask the natural inclusions present in every emerald.

Tips to View Emeralds Without Being Misled by Light

• Always observe emeralds in natural daylight. It’s the most neutral and reliable source.
• Avoid viewing them when the sky is cloudy or rainy. Gray light dulls the color.
• Don’t use warm (yellow) lights. They tend to alter the real green tone.
•  Prefer cool or neutral white lights when natural light isn’t available.
• Look at the emerald from different angles. Light changes as the gem moves.
•  Place it on a white background to better appreciate its true color.
• Don’t be impressed by overly bright jewelry store lights. They can exaggerate the brilliance.
• Best time to view an emerald: between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m.
• Observe the gem in both direct and diffused light to see its true personality.
• Trust an expert jeweler. At Emerald By Love, we showcase every gem with professional, transparent lighting.

Emerald By Love: Personalized Advice and the Finest Emeralds

At Emerald By Love, we help you discover the true beauty of Colombian emeralds, guiding you through every detail so you can choose with confidence. Our team of experts provides personalized assistance and teaches you how to identify each stone’s authentic color, purity, and brilliance.

Discover our exclusive collection of certified Colombian emeralds, hand-selected directly from the mines and set in unique 18k gold designs. Visit us and let the light reveal the true magic of Colombian green.

Paula A. Bonilla
Social communicator and journalist from Sergio Arboleda University in Colombia. Passionate about continually learning about precious gems and fine national jewelry. She currently works for one of Bogotá’s most renowned jewelry houses, Emerald by Love, which has over 40 years of experience in emeralds and two physical locations in the heart of Colombia’s capital city.