What a Colombian emerald certificate looks like?
A certificate of Colombian emeralds is a document issued by a recognized authority that verifies the authenticity and characteristics of an emerald from Colombia.
This certificate provides detailed information on the quality, origin and specific characteristics of the gem. In this article, we mentioned some elements that you could find in a Colombian emerald certificate and what format is in which you will normally find this document.
In what format come the emerald certificates
Colombian emerald certificates can be found in different presentations, these are the most common:
- Card: the certified card has regulatory information on the emerald, and also, this certificate has the letterhead of the laboratory that issues the document.
- Card: the card counts, like the booklet, with the information required to endorse the emerald, the difference is that this format comes with more concrete data and is usually used to certify diamonds.
- Document: these documents are usually delivered when buying a jewel with emeralds. These certificates are a little more informal and their validity increases when the company is registered in the RUCOM or certified high quality.
What information should an emerald certificate contain
1. Identification data: The certificate shall include information on the emerald, such as its carat weight (ct), shape (also known as size or cutting) and dimensions in millimetres.
2. Origin: It will be clearly indicated that the emerald comes from Colombia, as the country is known to be one of the main sources of high quality emeralds. If the emerald belongs to another country, this information must also be notified on the certificate.
Note: Please note that setting which specific mine the emerald belongs to is a little more complicated and laboratories generally do not certify mines. This is because the emeralds pass through several buyers and the voice is not enough to give the stone a mine source
3. Color grade: : Colombian emeralds are famous for their intense and vibrant green color. The certificate may include a detailed description of the gem's color and its classification according to a standard graduation system.
4. Transparency: Transparency is an important factor in the evaluation of an emerald. The certificate may indicate whether the gem is transparent, translucent or opaque.
5. Inclusions: Inclusions are natural characteristics found in most emeralds. The certificate could describe the inclusions present in the gem and assess its impact on quality and value.
This is usually found in the following rankings:
- Grade B: Low. Many inclusions
- Grade A: Weak. Moderate inclusions
- Grade AA: Good. Some inclusions
- AAA Grade: Excellent. Very fine inclusions
6. Treatments: Some emeralds may undergo treatments to improve their appearance. If the gem has been treated in any way, the certificate should mention it.
More than 90% of emeralds have very small fractures that can reach the surface. To improve the clarity of the stone, you add oil, wax or resin (emerald oiling), this being a common practice. A high viscosity cedar oil is usually used, although there are other alternatives.
Emeralds may have varying degrees of treatment, classified as:
- Grade 1 minor: minimum
- Grade 2 moderate: moderate
- Grade 3 significant: higher degree of treatment
7. Emitting laboratory: The certificate shall be supported by a recognised glutological laboratory that has evaluated and issued the certificate. The name and details of the laboratory shall be included in the document.
8. Certificate number: Each certificate has a unique identification number that distinguishes it from other certificates. This number will be used to verify the authenticity of the certificate.
Remember that specific details may vary according to the certificate issuing laboratory. It is important to ensure that the certificate is issued by a reliable and recognized entity in the field of gemology to ensure the authenticity and accuracy of the information provided.
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.
