Natural Emeralds are one of the 4 most precious gemstones on the planet. They have been admired for centuries for their unexplainable green color. You can basically say the king of all green gemstones. To date, it still holds much value in the hearts of gem experts and collectors.
Let's dive into History!
Natural Emeralds were only worn by Kings and queens. It was the diamond, the gemstone that held so much power in ancient times. A gemstone for only the top royals in the society. It was believed that Queen Cleopatra ( Queen Cleopatra was the last ruler of ancient Egypt about 2,000 years ago). She loved and adored Emeralds. Today, in paintings, she is often seen wearing a huge collection of emerald jewelry. From bold necklaces to earrings and rings. Some say she never stepped out with emeralds on. Egypt was the first place where Natural Emeralds were discovered. The earliest mines were around the Eastern Desert of Egypt, reaching back to around 1500 BC. These mines were actually known and named as Cleopatra's Mines. They have gone on to provide natural emeralds for over 1000 years.
To date, Natural Emeralds are found in many other regions worldwide. The main commanding mines include:
- Colombia: The only place that produces the best quality Natural Emeralds. These mines include the popular Muzo, Chivor, and Coscuez mines. Emeralds from these regions command a heavy price tag as they only produce top-grade gems.
- Zambia: Mines in the Kafubu area started producing high-quality emeralds in the 1970s. Emeralds from here are mostly top quality but not as good as those from Muzo and Chivor. Zambian mines also tend to produce much larger crystals.
- Brazil: Huge natural emerald deposits were found in the states of Minas Gerais, Goiás, and Bahia. Brazilian Emeralds show a more yellowish-green tone and lighter hues than Colombian Emeralds. They also show fewer clarity flaws compared to Colombians.
- Afghanistan: Located at an elevation of approximately 7-1400 ft in the mountainous terrain. The eastern side of the Panjshir River is where Afghanistan's vivid green jewels are mined.
- Pakistan: This wonderful country is also the home of some of the finest Natural Emeralds. Located in the Swat Valley. These emeralds are mostly called or terms Swat Green Emeralds.
- Russia: Russia also produces emeralds but no more on a large scale. The Ural Mountains have emerald deposits from where fine Emeralds come.
- Zimbabwe: Sandawana mines have been the source of emeralds for the past 40 years. They are known to produce small but top-quality emeralds. Displaying rich, deep hues that captivate many.
Today other countries like Ethiopia, Nigeria, Tanzania, and Madagascar also produce natural emeralds. These regions don't produce top-quality grades. Natural Emeralds from these regions may have slight differences in color and clarity.
Natural Emeralds can be light to dark green, depending on location or mine. The best and most sought after colors are the deep or vivid green with a bit of bluish tint. Natural Emeralds are often treated ( a technique used to improve or enhance the gem's beauty). Emeralds are dipped in oil to fill cracks and preserve its color. These gemstones are available in oval, Emerald Cut(rectangular), cushion shape and more.
As said earlier, emeralds of the best quality are from Colombia. but this doesn't mean other regions produce low-quality gems. Natural Emerald is the birthstone for May borns. It is believed the gemstone and color symbolize new beginnings, love, and rebirth. Top quality Natural Emerald are priced really high and could fetch up to 10,000 of dollars per carat
Looking to find the perfect emerald gemstone for your piece. Reach out customer care with a budget a receive a quote today.
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