Why Do Some Emeralds Shine More Than Others?
Emeralds are among the most admired precious gems in the world. Their deep green color and brilliance make them a symbol of luxury and elegance. However, not all emeralds shine the same. If you've ever wondered why some dazzle more than others, the answer lies in a combination of natural and human factors that determine their quality.
In this article, we’ll explain why some emeralds shine more than others, what influences their appearance, and how to recognize a high-quality gem. We’ll also share why Colombian emeralds are considered to have the best color in the world and how to choose the perfect one for you with the expert support of Emerald By Love.
Colombian Emeralds: The Best Color in the World
Colombia is internationally recognized as the country that produces the finest and most valuable emeralds on the planet. The mines of Muzo, Chivor, and Coscuez have been the source of some of the most famous gems sought after by high-end jewelers and gemstone collectors.
What sets Colombian emeralds apart is their pure, vibrant green color, with exceptional transparency and saturation. This unique tone, the result of very specific geological conditions, has yet to be matched by any other emerald-producing region.
What Qualities of Colombian Emeralds Exist?
Emeralds are primarily graded based on three criteria: color, clarity, and cut. In the case of Colombian emeralds, the following grades are commonly found:
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AAA Quality: Exceptional intense green color, high transparency, and minimal inclusions. Extremely rare and valuable.
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AA Quality: Bright green color, with some visible inclusions that don’t significantly affect brilliance.
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A Quality: Lighter or slightly yellowish green color, with a higher presence of inclusions.
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Commercial Quality: Low brilliance, many visible inclusions, often treated to improve appearance.
Why Do Some Emeralds Shine More Than Others?
The shine or brilliance of an emerald depends not only on its clarity or color but on a combination of factors that affect how light interacts with the gem:
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Mine of Origin: Each mine has distinct geological characteristics. For example, emeralds from Muzo tend to have a deeper green, while those from Chivor are often more crystalline—both factors that influence brilliance.
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Number of Inclusions ("Gardens"): Natural inclusions, also known as “gardens,” affect how light moves inside the gem. The fewer and finer the inclusions, the more brilliant the emerald will appear.
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Geological Formation: The way an emerald formed in nature defines its internal structure. A more perfect crystallization allows for better light play.
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Applied Treatments: Some emeralds are treated with oils or resins to disguise fractures. While these treatments improve appearance, they don’t always enhance the gem’s true brilliance. Untreated emeralds are often more valuable and naturally brighter.
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Cut: A well-executed cut optimizes the light passing through the emerald, enhancing its brilliance. Poorly cut stones can appear dull even if they have excellent color.
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Jewelry Setting: A well-set emerald can appear even more radiant.
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Cleaning and Care: A dirty or poorly maintained emerald loses its luster. Professional cleaning and proper storage help preserve its original brilliance.
Emerald By Love: The Place to Find the Brightest Emeralds
At Emerald By Love, we offer authentic Colombian emeralds, hand-selected directly at the mines based on their color, brilliance, and transparency. Each gem is certified and, if desired, untreated to guarantee its natural purity.
We specialize in pieces that highlight the best of each emerald: its history, its origin, and its brilliance. If you're looking for a jewel with an emerald that truly dazzles, you’re in the right place.
Paula A. Bonilla
Social communicator and journalist from Sergio Arboleda University in Colombia. Passionate about continuously learning about precious gems and national fine jewelry. Currently works for one of Bogotá’s most renowned jewelry houses, Emerald by Love. This jeweler has more than 40 years of experience and two physical stores in the heart of Colombia’s capital.
