Treatments or Enhancements in Colombian Emeralds: Good or Bad?

We’ve noticed that some of our clients have questions about the enhancement processes used in Colombian emeralds—and we completely understand! It can be a bit confusing, especially when you’re not sure whether the emerald you want to purchase has been treated, whether that will affect its quality over time, or even if you paid a fair price for it.

In this article, we want to give you a clear guide to help you understand what emerald enhancements involve, the main treatments used today, how they influence the quality–price relationship of your Colombian emerald, and why enhancing an emerald is never a negative thing. Let’s dive in!

Colombian Emeralds: The Most Famous in the World

Talking about emeralds is talking about Colombia. It’s no coincidence that Colombian emeralds are considered the finest and most coveted in the world. Their deep green color, unique brilliance, and origin in legendary mines such as Muzo, Chivor, and Coscuez make them true natural treasures.

But beyond their natural beauty, there’s a key topic many people don’t fully understand—one that directly impacts their appearance, value, and durability: treatments or enhancement processes.

Are Enhancement and Treatment the Same Thing?

Yes. In the world of emeralds, “enhancement” and “treatment” essentially mean the same thing.

Both terms refer to all the processes applied to an emerald after it is mined, with the goal of improving its appearance. This may include enhancing its clarity, highlighting its color, or making natural inclusions less visible.

It’s important to understand this: a treated emerald is still natural. It has simply been optimized to look even more beautiful. 

Most Common Treatments in Emeralds

This is where things get interesting. Emeralds are among the most delicate gemstones in the market, and no two emeralds are exactly alike. Their treatment plays a major role in their price, appearance, and exclusivity.

1. Natural Emerald WITHOUT Oil

This is the “premium level.”

An emerald without oil has not received any type of treatment to improve its appearance. In other words, it remains exactly as it came from the earth.

Why is it so special?

• It is extremely rare
• It has exceptional natural purity
• It does not require external enhancement
• It is the most highly valued in the market

It is also the most expensive of all. You are literally buying nature in its purest form.

2. Oiled Emerald

This is the most traditional and widely accepted treatment in the emerald world. It involves applying natural oils (usually cedar wood oil) into the microscopic fissures of the stone to improve its clarity.

Important note:

An oiled emerald is still natural. It does not lose its essence or value—it has simply been enhanced. In fact, many high-end emeralds are oiled.

Oil Levels

To better understand the degree of treatment, classifications are used:

• F1 – Minor (light)
  Minimal amount of oil
  Subtle clarity improvement
  High visual quality
  Highly valued in the market
• F2 – Moderate
  More oil than F1
  More noticeable visual improvement
  More accessible price
  Still maintains good commercial value
  Ideal if you want a beautiful emerald at a more affordable price

3. Perma (Modern Treatment)

Here we enter a more technological type of treatment. PERMA uses special resins instead of oils to fill the fissures in the emerald.

What makes it different?

• It is more durable than oil
• It does not require frequent reapplication
• It significantly improves appearance

Keep in mind that PERMA treatment lowers the price of an emerald compared to an oiled or untreated one. And this is not a negative thing—it’s simply another option in the market, ideal for those seeking beauty at a better price.

An Enhanced Emerald Is…

Advantages

• Better appearance (more brilliance and clarity)
• Greater affordability
• More options depending on your budget
• Ideal for everyday jewelry

Disadvantages

• May require maintenance (in the case of oil)
• Lower value compared to an untreated emerald
  

Treatments in Colombian Emeralds: Good or Bad?

Talking about treatments in Colombian emeralds is not about “altering” them, but about highlighting what nature created. Far from being negative, enhancements—when done correctly—are an essential part of the fine jewelry world.

Because these gems naturally contain inclusions, traditional processes such as oiling help improve their brilliance and transparency without losing authenticity. In addition, these treatments make emeralds more accessible in the market, preserving their charm and value, as long as there is full transparency about the type of treatment applied.

Emerald By Love: We Guide You Every Step of the Way

Choosing an emerald shouldn’t be complicated or confusing. At Emerald By Love, we help you understand exactly what you are buying. We explain the treatment of your emerald, advise you based on your budget and style, and even guide you through enhancement processes if needed.

Paula A. Bonilla
Social communicator and journalist from Sergio Arboleda University in Colombia.