What Are the Recommended Books to Learn About Emeralds?
Emeralds have captivated humanity for centuries with their deep green color, rarity, and legendary history. But beyond their beauty, understanding their origin, quality, cutting, and market is key for those who wish to delve into the world of these gems—whether as collectors, investors, designers, or simply enthusiasts.
Reading specialized books is one of the best ways to gain that knowledge. There are works written by gemologists, historians, miners, and traders that offer a complete view of the emerald universe—from the mine to the final piece of jewelry. However, not all books provide up-to-date or unbiased information. That’s why it’s important to know which ones to trust. In this article, we’ll guide you through the essential readings without falling into the trap of unreliable sources.
Why Is It Important to Learn About Colombian Emeralds?
Colombia produces between 70% and 90% of the world’s finest emeralds. Learning about Colombian emeralds not only helps you identify their true value but also allows you to appreciate their origin and the mining culture that surrounds them.
In addition, understanding their history means understanding part of Colombia’s heritage. Emeralds have played a role in the country's economy, diplomacy, and even conflicts. That’s why learning about them is useful not only if you’re thinking of buying one, but also if you want to understand the natural and cultural richness this gem represents.
Are All Books Reliable?
Unfortunately, no. Many texts available online or in bookstores contain outdated information, technical errors, or superficial content. Some are even written with commercial rather than educational purposes. It's common to find books that confuse lab-grown emeralds with natural ones, or that fail to distinguish between geographic origins.
That’s why the most advisable approach is to consult works backed by certified gemologists, recognized institutions, or authors with proven experience in the emerald world. Below is a reliable list to help you start your emerald library.
Recommended Books to Learn About Emeralds
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Emeralds: A Passionate Guide – Ronald Ringsrud
Written by an American gemologist with decades of experience in Colombia. It blends technical data, history, and anecdotes from the Colombian market. Available on Amazon and in gemology bookstores. -
Emerald and Other Beryls – John Sinkankas
Considered a classic. It delves into the science behind beryl (the mineral family of emeralds), its varieties, and its history in different cultures. Available in academic libraries or on Amazon. -
Colombian Emeralds – Charles W. Johnson Jr.
A concise yet well-documented guide on the history and characteristics of Colombian emeralds. Available in gemological and collector bookstores. -
Gemstones of the World – Walter Schumann
Not exclusively about emeralds, but its section on them is clear and helpful for beginners. Easily found on Amazon or in bookstores in Colombia. -
Emerald: Twenty-One Centuries of Jewelled Opulence and Power – Joanna Hardy
A visual and luxurious book that explores the use of emeralds in jewelry throughout history. Includes iconic pieces and interviews with experts. Available on Amazon and from art publishers. -
The Book of Emeralds – Fred Ward
Part of a series on precious stones. It’s an excellent starting point for beginners looking for technical data and photographs. Available on Amazon. -
Gem Identification Made Easy – Antoinette Matlins and Antonio Bonanno
Although it's general on gemstone identification, it contains useful information to distinguish natural, treated, or synthetic emeralds. Available on Amazon and from specialized publishers.
Emerald By Love: The Best Source to Learn
While not a book, Emerald By Love is one of the best sources for learning about Colombian emeralds in a direct, transparent, and professional way. It offers in-person experiences in Bogotá to see and learn about real emeralds, with expert guidance, gemological certificates, and connections to jewelers.
Whether you're just beginning your research or thinking about buying an emerald, Emerald By Love allows you to connect with the heart of this industry in an authentic and trustworthy way. Plus, you can get all your questions answered by experts and see for yourself what a real emerald looks like.
Paula A. Bonilla
Social communicator and journalist from Sergio Arboleda University in Colombia. Passionate about continuously learning about precious gems and high-end national jewelry. She currently works for one of the most important jewelry stores in Bogotá, Emerald By Love, a brand with over 40 years of experience and two physical locations in the heart of Colombia’s capital.
