How to detect a fake Colombian emerald?

Colombian emeralds are widely recognized for their exceptional quality and beauty. However, growing demand has led to an increase in the number of fake emeralds in the market.

If you're considering buying a Colombian emerald, it's critical that you can distinguish between an authentic and a fake one. In this article, we will provide you with a complete guide to detect fake emeralds, ensuring your investment is genuine and valuable.

Characteristics of a Colombian Emerald

Colombian emeralds stand out for several unique characteristics that make them highly appreciated:

1. Intense color: They have a vibrant, deep green, often with bluish shades.
2. Clarity : They can have inclusions, known as gardens, which do not usually decrease their value.
3. Cut: They usually present precise and well-finished cuts.
4. Shine : They exhibit a natural brightness and a distinctive light refraction.

10 Tips to Detect a False Emerald

1. Check the Color : The authentic emeralds have an intense green color with unique nuances. If the stone looks too uniform or has an artificial green, it could be fake.
2. Inspect the Inclusions: Authentic Colombian emeralds often have natural inclusions. Use a jewelry magnifying glass to examine the stone up close. Synthetic emeralds tend to have different or less natural inclusions.
3. Look at Clarity: Although authentic emeralds may have inclusions, these should not be so obvious as to affect their beauty. A completely clear stone could be an imitation.
4. Check the Hardness: The emeralds have a toughness of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale. If the stone is easily striped, it's probably not an authentic emerald.
5. Try the Refraction : Use a refractometer to measure the refraction of light. Authentic emeralds have a higher refraction compared to imitations.
6. Check the Temperature . Place the emerald on your skin. Authentic emeralds tend to remain cold for longer compared to fake stones.
7. Examine the Cut and the Pulse: Authentic emeralds usually have precise cuts and finishes. Imitations can have visible imperfections in the cut.
8. See the Certificate: Request a gemological certificate from a recognized laboratory to verify the authenticity of the emerald.
9. Look for the price: If the price seems too good to be true, the emerald may be false. Genuine Colombian emeralds are often expensive because of their quality.
10. Perform a UV Light Test: Authentic emeralds can show fluorescence under ultraviolet light. However, this test is not definitive and must be complemented by other evaluations.

What to do if you find out your emerald is False

1. Check the Return Policy: Contact the seller and check if you can return the stone or exchange it for an authentic one.
2. Consult an expert: Take the emerald to a certified gemologist for detailed evaluation and advice on the following steps.
3. Consider a Legal Claim: If you bought a merchant's emerald and have evidence that you were cheated, you might consider taking legal action.
4. Share Your Experience: Informing other potential buyers about your experience can help prevent future fraud.

Buying a Colombian emerald can be an exciting and rewarding experience if you make sure that the stone you acquire is authentic. Following these tips and doing the necessary tests, you can enjoy the beauty and genuine value of an emerald without unpleasant surprises.

Paula A. Bonilla

Social communicator and journalist at Sergio Arboleda University in Colombia. She is also a jeweller and passionate about constantly learning about precious gems and high national jewellery.

Currently, he works for one of the most important jewelry stores in Bogotá, Esmeralda by Love. This jewelry has more than 40 years of experience and has 2 physical branches in the capital of Colombia, located in the center of the city.