Women in the World of Colombian Emeralds
In the heart of Colombia, emeralds shine not only for their unmatched beauty, but also for the hands and hearts that work them. Behind every gem are stories of effort, knowledge, and passion—many of them led by women who have made a difference in a sector historically dominated by men.
In the world of Colombian emeralds, the female presence has grown remarkably over the past few decades. From mining to design and commercialization, women have demonstrated a unique ability to bring precision, delicacy, and an artistic touch that allows each stone to tell its own story.
Women in the History of Emeralds
The history of emeralds in Colombia is full of legends, and in many of them, women have played a key role. During pre-Columbian times, communities such as the Muisca valued emeralds not only as trade goods but also as symbols of fertility and feminine power. Women, responsible for safeguarding and passing on knowledge about these gems, held a sacred role in their care and ceremonial use.
Over the centuries, and despite social barriers, women continued to influence the trade and valuation of emeralds. In local markets, they were the ones negotiating, selecting, and passing down from generation to generation the expert eye needed to recognize the true quality of a Colombian emerald.
Roles Women Play in the World of Colombian Emeralds
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Miners – Directly involved in extraction, working in the mines and contributing strength, precision, and perseverance.
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Gem Cutters – Specialists in shaping the gem, carefully crafting each facet to enhance its brilliance and purity.
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Sorters – With a detailed eye, they separate and classify stones according to color, transparency, and size.
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Jewelry Designers – Transform emeralds into unique pieces, blending creativity with goldsmithing techniques.
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Traders – Lead national and international businesses, connecting Colombian products with luxury markets.
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Guides and Educators – Share the history, process, and cultural value of emeralds in museums, fairs, and specialized tours.
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Artisans – Integrate emeralds into handcrafted creations that blend tradition and modernity.
Emerald By Love
At Emerald By Love, we believe that every emerald is a testament to the land and the people who work it. That is why we support and highlight the work of women in the emerald industry—from the mine to the showcase. Our pieces not only feature the quality of the finest Colombian emeralds but also the care and dedication of women who have perfected their craft over the years.
When you choose a jewel from Emerald By Love, you are not only acquiring a unique gem, but also a story of effort, tradition, and feminine passion that makes it even more valuable.
Paula A. Bonilla
Social communicator and journalist from Universidad Sergio Arboleda in Colombia. Passionate about constantly learning about precious gemstones and high-end Colombian jewelry. She currently works for one of Bogotá’s most prestigious jewelry stores, Emerald by Love, which has over 40 years of experience in emeralds and two physical branches in the capital, both located in the city center.
