Mistakes That Damage a Colombian Emerald Without You Realizing

Owning a Colombian emerald is like holding a piece of nature in your hands. But just as they are beautiful, they also require certain care that we often overlook without even noticing.
And the truth is, you don’t need to do anything extreme to damage it—sometimes it’s the small, everyday habits that end up affecting its shine, structure, or even its value. In this blog, I’ll walk you through the most common mistakes and how to easily avoid them.

Colombian Emeralds: As Beautiful as They Are Delicate

Colombian emeralds are famous worldwide for their intense color and natural appearance. Unlike other gemstones, these gems often have internal inclusions (what many call the “garden”), which are completely normal and part of their beauty.
But those same characteristics also make them more delicate than stones like diamonds. This doesn’t mean they are fragile, but they do require a little more care and attention. Treat them well, and they can last a lifetime… and beyond.

Mistakes That Damage a Colombian Emerald Without You Realizing

1. Wearing it for everything
Going to the gym, washing dishes, cleaning… all while wearing your emerald.
What happens?
Unnecessary impact and wear.
Solution:
Take it off for physical activities or heavy tasks.

2. Cleaning it with harsh chemicals
Using bleach, detergents, or abrasive cleaners.
What happens?
It affects the shine and can damage the stone’s natural treatments.
Solution:
Clean it only with lukewarm water, mild soap, and a soft cloth.

3. Exposing it to sudden temperature changes
Going quickly from extreme heat to cold.
What happens?
It can create internal fractures.
Solution:
Avoid saunas, very hot water, or extreme changes.

4. Hitting it without realizing
Small knocks against tables, doors, or hard surfaces.
What happens?
It can chip or scratch.
Solution:
Wear it mindfully, especially in rings.

5. Storing it with other jewelry
Mixing it with diamonds or other stones.
What happens?
It can get scratched easily.
Solution:
Store it in a separate pouch or box.

6. Not maintaining it
Assuming it never needs checking.
What happens?
Settings can loosen and you may lose the stone.
Solution:
Have it checked at least once a year.

7. Exposing it to perfumes or creams
Applying products directly over the jewelry.
What happens?
Its shine becomes dull.
Solution:
Apply perfume first, then put on your jewelry.

8. Cleaning it with ultrasound
A common method for other stones… but NOT for emeralds.
What happens?
It can cause serious internal damage.
Solution:
Avoid ultrasonic cleaners.

9. Not knowing if it has treatment
Many emeralds are treated with natural oils to improve appearance.
What happens?
You may damage it without knowing.
Solution:
Always buy with professional guidance.

10. Buying without knowing its quality
Choosing only based on price or size.
What happens?
You end up with a more vulnerable or lower-value stone.
Solution:
Learn about color, clarity, and origin.

Emerald Care: Basic Tips

Here are 5 simple tips that make ALL the difference:

• Clean it gently once a month
• Avoid wearing it daily if it’s a delicate piece
• Store it separately from other jewelry
• Have it checked regularly by an expert jeweler
• Wear it with love, but also with care

Emerald By Love: Restore Your Damaged Emerald

If you feel your emerald has lost its shine, has some damage, or simply doesn’t look the way it used to, not all is lost. At Emerald By Love, we have experts who can help restore it, clean it properly, and bring back the life that makes it so special.
We also guide you so you can learn how to care for it properly and preserve its beauty for many years. Because an emerald is not just a piece of jewelry… it’s a story, an investment, and a treasure worth protecting.

Paula A. Bonilla
Social communicator and journalist from Sergio Arboleda University in Colombia. Passionate about constantly learning about precious gemstones and high-end national jewelry. Currently works for one of Bogotá’s most important jewelry brands, Emerald by Love. This jewelry house has over 40 years of experience in emeralds and has two physical stores in Colombia’s capital, located in the city center.