Urban legends on emerald lost in Colombia

Emeralds, gems of a dazzling green, have captivated the imagination of people from all over the world for centuries.

In Colombia, a country known as one of the leading producers of quality emeralds, these precious stones have inspired numerous urban legends that linger in the minds of locals and visitors alike.

In this article, we will explore some of the most intriguing legends about emeralds lost in Colombia, which have fueled imagination and treasures for generations.

Legends of lost Colombian emeralds

1. The Emerald of the Golden: The Legend of the Emerald of the Golden tells the story of a gigantic emerald, the size of a fist, which is lost somewhere in the lush Colombian landscapes. It is said that this emerald, of incalculable value, was part of the treasure of El Dorado, the legendary city of gold. Over the years, many adventurers have undertaken expeditions in search of this lost jewel, but to this day, his whereabouts remain a mystery.
2. The Treasure of the Quimbayas: The Quimbayas were an ancient pre-Columbian civilization that inhabited the western region of Colombia. According to legend, this civilization concealed a great treasure of emeralds somewhere in the mountains of the Andes mountain range. It is said that the treasure is protected by mortal traps and that only those with a pure heart can find it. Despite numerous expeditions in search of this treasure, no one has managed to discover his exact whereabouts.
3. The Curse of the Emerald of Fura and Tena: Fura and Tena is a famous emerald mine located in Colombia. According to legend, an emerald of extraordinary size was found in this mine, but those who tried to possess it were affected by a terrible curse. It is said that the emerald is cursed and that it brings misfortune to those who own it. Although many have tried to recover it, the curse persists and the emerald is still lost somewhere in the depths of the mine.
4. The Emerald of Sacred Mountain: It is said that deep in the Colombian forests, on a sacred mountain revered by ancient indigenous tribes, lies an emerald of a dazzling glow. According to legend, this emerald is protected by guardian spirits and can only be found by those who show courage and respect for nature. Over the years, many have tried to find this jewel, but few have returned to tell the story.
5. The Inca Empress' Necklace: During the time of the Inca empire, the emperor's favorite empress is said to have a magnificent necklace embedded with Colombian emeralds of exceptional beauty. After the fall of the empire, the necklace mysteriously disappeared and has since been searched by archaeologists and treasure hunters. The necklace is rumoured to be hidden in a secret location, waiting to be discovered by those with enough determination to find it.
6. The Mirror of the Moon: According to legend, in a cave hidden in the depths of the Colombian jungle is a mirror made entirely of emeralds. It is said that this mirror, known as the Mirror of the Moon, has the power to reveal the deepest desires of the human heart. Those who venture in search of this treasure must face supernatural challenges and overcome trials of courage and wisdom. However, those who manage to find the Mirror of the Moon gain unimaginable power, but they also run the risk of falling under their mysterious influence.

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.