There are key factors to consider when choosing a Colombian emerald :
Source
Buy from reputable dealers like ourselves who mine and source directly from the major Colombian mines like La Pita, Muzo, Chivor, or Coscuez for guaranteed authenticity. prioritizing vivid color, high clarity, certification, minimal enhancement, trusted sources, and colour/clarity over size, you can select a high-quality, ethically sourced Colombian emerald that retains its value.
The 5 C’s for evaluating colored gemstones are a useful guide when selecting emeralds:
Colour
The most prized colour for Colombian emeralds is a vivid bluish-green to pure green hue. This colour is most associated with The La Pita mine & Muzo mines. The colour should be intense, saturated, and evenly distributed throughout the stone.
Clarity
Look for emeralds with fewer visible inclusions or internal jardin (garden). Some inclusions are expected and indicate a natural stone, but too many can impact the transparency and brilliance. Use a loupe to inspect for clarity.
Certification
Insist on a reputable gemological certification that verifies the emerald’s Colombian origin and quality characteristics like color, clarity, enhancements, etc. This authenticates the stone’s value. We like to use our good friends and most popular gem institute in Colombia, CDTEC Gem Lab located in the Emerald Trade Center. The Gem Labs of Switzerland such as Gubelin, SSEF & GRS are recommended for emeralds of a higher value
Enhancements
Most emeralds are treated with oils or resins to improve apparent clarity. Minor enhancements are acceptable, but avoid heavily treated stones as it reduces their value and durability.
Carat
Larger emeralds over 1 carat are rarer and more valuable but prioritize color and clarity over carat weight for better value.5 An intense smaller stone is preferable to a larger dull one.
Cut
Emeralds are challenging to cut properly due to their brittle and fracture-filled nature. A well-proportioned cut that maximizes color saturation and brilliance is desirable
