Myths and Truths of the Colombian Emeralds
Colombian emeralds have captured the imagination of people from all over the world because of their exceptional beauty and unique reputation. However, around these precious gems circulate a series of myths and truths, especially in relation to their cost and authenticity.
That is why we have created this article to demystify and confirm some of the most common thoughts about Colombian emeralds, focusing on their value and frequent doubts about their authenticity.
Common Myths
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All Colombian emeralds are expensive:
Myth: Although Colombian emeralds are known for their quality, not all are equally expensive. The price of an emerald is determined by factors such as its color, clarity, cutting and weight. While high-quality emeralds can be expensive, there are also more affordable options. -
Only the big emeralds are valuable:
Myth: While large emeralds can be impressive and valuable, the value of an emerald is not based solely on its size. Smaller but high-quality stones in terms of colour and clarity can also have significant value. -
Synthetic emeralds are easily detectable:
Myth: As technology advances, synthetic emeralds can be harder to distinguish with the naked eye. Precise detection often requires the experience of gemologists and specialized tests.
Revelling Truths
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Variety of Prices:
Truth: Colombian emeralds are presented at a wide range of prices. High quality stones, with intense colors and little inclusion, can reach significantly high prices. However, it is possible to find more affordable emeralds without compromising the quality too much. -
Expert Assessment:
Truth: The authenticity and quality of a Colombian emerald is best determined through expert evaluation. Certified Gemologists use various tools and techniques to analyze authenticity and classify the quality of an emerald. -
Inclusions as Signature:
Truth: Colombian emeralds often present inclusions, but these can be considered a kind of signature that demonstrates their authenticity. Specific inclusions, such as emerald gardens, can be unique and a sign of Colombian origin.
Factors that influence Cost
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Intense and Homogene Color:
Importance: Color is one of the most critical factors in determining the value of an emerald. Stones with an intense, homogeneous green are generally more valuable. -
Clarity and Absence of Notable Inclusions:
Importance: Although some inclusions are acceptable and can even confirm authenticity, emeralds with exceptional clarity and few inclusions have a higher value. -
Precise cut:
Importance: The cutting of an emerald affects its brightness and overall appearance. A precise cut maximizes the beauty of the gem. -
Weight or Quilates:
Importance: While the size of an emerald influences its value, it is not the only determining factor. A large stone with low color quality and clarity may be worth less than a smaller but higher quality.
Buyers' Tips
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Certification GIA or Other Recognized:
Recommendation: When buying a Colombian emerald, it seeks stones with certifications from gemological laboratories recognized as GIA. These certifications provide details of the authenticity and quality of the gem. -
Buy of Reliable Vendors:
Recommendation: Buy emeralds from reliable and renowned sellers. It conducts research into the seller's reputation and looks for customer reviews before making a significant purchase. -
Consider all Characteristics:
Recommendation: It evaluates all the characteristics of the emerald, not just its size. A smaller but high quality stone may be more valuable and beautiful than a larger but lower quality.
Paula A. Bonilla
Social communicator and journalist from Sergio Arboleda University in Colombia. She is also a jeweler and is passionate about constantly learning about precious gems and national high jewelry.
Currently, she is working for one of Bogotá's most important jewelry stores, Emerald by Love. This jewelry store has over 40 years of experience and has 2 physical branches in the capital city of Colombia, located in the city center.
