Colombian emeralds are world-renowned for their quality and beauty. Colombia has established itself as the largest producer of emeralds in the world, and its history is deeply linked to these precious stones.

This article explores how, when and where the first emerald mine was discovered in Colombia, along with a timeline of emeralds in the country and a top 5 of the oldest emeralds.

Timeline of Colombian Emeralds

Emeralds are prized for their vibrant green color and rarity, and Colombia has been the epicenter of their production for centuries. The history of emeralds in Colombia dates back to pre-Columbian times, when indigenous cultures were already mining and trading them.

Today, Colombian emeralds are a symbol of luxury and exclusivity. This is how the discovery of emeralds occurred over time:

• Pre-Columbian Period (500 BC – 1500 AD) : The Muisca and Quimbaya indigenous civilizations were already extracting emeralds from natural deposits, using them in rituals and as a status symbol.
• 1500 AD : During the Spanish colonization, the conquistadors discovered the emerald mines while exploring the Colombian territory.
• 1558 : The formal discovery of the first emerald mines, known as the discovery of the Muzo mines, marks the beginning of systematic exploitation under Spanish rule.
• 18th – 19th Century : Emerald mining remains one of the most important industries in the region, but with limited control by colonial authorities.
• 20th Century – Present : Colombia remains the world leader in the production of high-quality emeralds. Some of the largest and most valuable stones in history have been discovered and traded.

How, When and Where Was the First Emerald Mine Discovered?

The first emerald mine in Colombia was discovered in Muzo , a region located in the department of Boyacá. This discovery occurred in 1558 , when Spanish explorers, guided by stories from indigenous communities, found the mines that had been exploited by the Muiscas for centuries.

The Muzo mine, renowned for the exceptional quality of its emeralds, was the first to be exploited by the Spanish, quickly becoming a strategic point for the Spanish crown in obtaining precious gems.

Emeralds mined in Muzo became one of the most valuable exports of the colonial era, and the region remains one of the world's leading sources of emeralds.

The Oldest Emeralds in Colombia

• La Fura : Weighing 11,000 carats, it is one of the largest emeralds found in Colombia. It was discovered in the Muzo mine and is a symbol of the country's mineral wealth.
• La Tena : This historic emerald, weighing 2,000 carats, was found in the same region of Muzo in the 18th century, and is one of the oldest gems still preserved.
• La Emilia : Known for its deep green color, La Emilia was discovered in the 19th century in the Coscuez mine and weighs 1,759 carats.
• The Cruz de Boyacá : A medium-sized emerald of great historical importance, it was carved in the shape of a cross during the colonial era and is preserved as a symbol of religion and jewelry in Colombia.
• The Patricia : Discovered in 1920 at the Chivor mine, this 632-carat emerald is one of the most famous gems for its clarity and perfection.

Paula A. Bonilla

Social communicator and journalist from Sergio Arboleda University in Colombia. She is also a jeweler and is passionate about constantly learning about precious gems and national fine jewelry.

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