Can a Treated Colombian Emerald Still Be Natural?
When someone is thinking about buying a Colombian emerald, it is normal to have questions about terms such as natural, treated, untreated, oiled, or synthetic. Sometimes these concepts can seem contradictory, especially when we hear that a natural emerald has received some type of treatment.
But there is something important you should know: a treated Colombian emerald can still be completely natural. Treatment does not mean that the stone was artificially created. These are two different concepts, and it is important to understand the difference.
What Does It Mean for an Emerald to Be Natural?
A natural emerald is one that formed naturally inside the Earth through geological processes that can take millions of years.
In the case of Colombian emeralds, they are mainly found in different mining areas throughout the country, including Muzo, Coscuez, Chivor, and Gachalá.
Therefore, when we talk about a natural Colombian emerald, we are referring to a stone that:
- Formed naturally.
- Was extracted from an emerald deposit.
- Has Colombian geographic origin.
- Was not created in a laboratory.
If the emerald later receives a treatment, this does not change the fact that its origin is natural.
So, What Does It Mean for an Emerald to Be Treated?
The term treated refers to a process carried out after the emerald has been extracted.
Emeralds often contain inclusions and small fractures, which are very common characteristics of these gemstones. In some cases, these features can extend all the way to the surface of the gem.
One of the best-known treatments used for emeralds is oiling, in which a substance is used to fill certain fractures and improve the stone's visual appearance.
This does not mean that a new emerald has been manufactured.
For example:
Natural Colombian emerald + oil treatment = treated natural Colombian emerald.
The stone remains natural. What changes is that it has received a treatment after being extracted.
Does a Treated Emerald Stop Being Natural?
No. A treated emerald does not stop being natural.
The difference lies in its origin and in the treatment it received after extraction. An emerald can be completely natural while also having been treated to improve its appearance.
Emerald By Love: Understanding Your Emerald's Treatment
At Emerald By Love, we believe that knowing what you are buying is just as important as finding an emerald you truly love. We work with natural Colombian emeralds, including stones that may have undergone common gemological treatments, and we clearly explain their origin, characteristics, and treatment.
Our goal is to help you choose your emerald with all the information you need and find a stone that suits your taste and budget. If you are looking for a natural Colombian emerald, our team will be happy to assist you, whether you are choosing a piece from our collection or creating a custom piece of jewelry.
Paula Bonilla
Social Communicator and Journalist, Sergio Arboleda University, Colombia
