Why Do Two Emeralds of the Same Size Cost Different Prices?

If you’ve ever compared two emeralds that “look the same” and felt surprised because one costs much more than the other, don’t worry — you’re not alone. At first glance, they may seem to have the same size, the same shade of green, and even the same brilliance. But in the world of gemstones — especially when we talk about Colombian emeralds — details are everything.

And this is where it gets interesting. In fine jewelry, the price of an emerald is not determined only by its millimeter measurements or how it looks in a photo. Its value is defined by a combination of technical and natural factors that directly influence its worth. Today, I’ll explain it to you so you can understand why two emeralds of the same size can have completely different prices.

Colombian Emeralds: The Best in the World

When it comes to quality, Colombian emeralds are considered the finest in the world. This isn’t just marketing — it’s a historical reputation. For centuries, they have been recognized for their intense, pure, and vibrant green color, which is difficult to find in other producing countries.

Colombian mines produce emeralds with unique color saturation and depth. That lively green tone, slightly bluish in some cases, is what captivates collectors, investors, and high jewelry lovers. That’s why, when you’re looking to buy a high-quality emerald, you will almost always hear that Colombian emeralds are at the top of the market.

Characteristics of Colombian Emeralds

Now let’s get to what truly determines an emerald’s value:

1. Color

Color is the most important factor. Experts evaluate tone, saturation, and intensity.

• A deep, vivid, and bright green increases the value.

• If the color is too light or too dark, the price decreases.

• Uniform color distribution is key — an even color is worth more.

2. Transparency

Emeralds naturally have inclusions (what many call the “garden”).

• The more transparent the stone, the higher its value.

• If inclusions affect brilliance or structural integrity, the price decreases.

• Good transparency allows light to enter and reflect more strongly.

3. Treatments

Most emeralds are treated with natural oils to improve their appearance.

• Minor treatments are acceptable in the market.

• Heavy treatments reduce value.

• An untreated emerald or one with minimal treatment can cost significantly more.

4. Cut

The cut directly influences brilliance.

• A well-executed cut enhances color and luminosity.

• A poor cut can make a beautiful emerald appear dull.

• The famous emerald cut is designed to protect the stone and enhance its color.

5. Carat Weight

Weight is not the same as visual size.

• Two stones can measure the same but weigh differently.

• The higher the carat weight, the greater the value — as long as quality matches.

Why Do Two Emeralds of the Same Size Cost Different Prices?

Here’s the key part.

First, density can differ. Two emeralds may have the same millimeter measurements, but one may have more internal “content,” meaning a higher carat weight due to its density or proportions. That small difference impacts the price.

Second, even if they look alike, they’re not identical. One may have better color, greater transparency, or less treatment than the other. Even if the visual size is similar, internal quality can vary significantly.

Third, proportions matter. Sometimes one stone is deeper while another is flatter. This affects weight, light performance, and value. An emerald with better proportions and cut may look just as large but be worth much more.

And most importantly: emeralds are natural gemstones. No two are identical. There will always be one with a better combination of characteristics than the other. And in the gemstone market, every small detail adds to — or subtracts from — the final price.

Emerald By Love: Find the Perfect Emerald

At Emerald By Love, we understand that choosing an emerald is not just a purchase — it’s an investment and a story. That’s why we guide you so you can understand every characteristic and find the perfect stone for you, with transparency and trust.

We work exclusively with high-quality Colombian emeralds, carefully selected to guarantee authenticity, beauty, and real value. Because it’s not just about size… it’s about quality, origin, and essence.

If you ever compare two emeralds of the same size and notice different prices, now you know: behind every stone, there is a world of details that make one truly extraordinary.

Paula A. Bonilla

Social communicator and journalist from Universidad Sergio Arboleda in Colombia. Passionate about continuously learning about precious gemstones and fine national jewelry. Currently works for one of Bogotá’s most important jewelry houses, Emerald by Love. This jewelry company has more than 40 years of experience in emeralds and has two physical branches in Colombia’s capital, located in the city center.