Is there such a thing as green emerald?
In a situation similar to the division between pink sapphire and ruby, some chromium colored stones of light to medium-light green color are sometimes sold as emeralds though they could be considered green beryls. Emeralds should have a medium to dark primary green hue.
How do I find out the value of emeralds?
The International Gem Society (IGS) has a list of businesses offering gemstone appraisal services. Like many stones, the per-carat price of fine quality emerald escalates rapidly with size. For example, a recent price guide lists a fine quality 3-ct Colombian stone as six times more valuable than three equivalent quality 1-ct stones.
What is the difference between treated and unenhanced emeralds?
Top quality, unenhanced stones (with certification) can bring as much as 50% more in price than treated stones of the same size, color, and clarity. An emerald’s inclusions can impact not only its clarity but also its structural integrity. However, they can also give each emerald a unique appearance.
How important is clarity in emeralds?
Clarity is important, but inclusions are tolerated more in emeralds than virtually any other gem. Top quality, unenhanced stones (with certification) can bring as much as 50% more in price than treated stones of the same size, color, and clarity.
Where are emeralds found in the world?
Where are emeralds found? The principal Emerald deposits are currently mined in Colombia, Brazil, and Zambia. Emeralds are mined throughout the world (Pakistan, Afghanistan, Russia, Australia, United States) but these are the three major sources. Colombia arguably produces the finest Emeralds.
When was Emerald first discovered?
Emerald was known in antiquity and was prized as a gem. In the 1790s, Louis Nicolas Vauquelin, the discoverer of chromium, demonstrated that emerald and beryl were essentially the same chemical compound and that emeralds, sensu strictu, contained chromium.