Poor Transparency | Discount Loose Gemstones

Brilliant Cut Emerald

The definition of “Emerald” varies depending on the user. Typically, at gem shows and retail stores, most Beryl that looks more or less green is typically labeled as an Emerald. However, most gem dealers feel that light green stones should be referred to as “Green Beryl” and only the darker green stones should be called “Emerald.” American gemologists feel that Beryl colored by Vandadium can be classified as an Emerald, but European mineralogists tend to believe that true Emeralds must be colored by Chromium.

In reference to pricing, the definition of “Emerald” is irrelevant. If a one-carat Beryl has a saturated green color and is transparent and eye-clean, it can be worth over $6,000 retail. Transparency is everything. If a Beryl is light green and has poor transparency, it usually isn’t worth much, no matter how it’s labeled. Low-grade Emeralds or Beryl can sell for a little as $10 per carat, and can be flawed with inclusions and cracks, especially if it has a deep green color. Nevertheless, clarity and transparency play a major role in Emerald pricing.

Almost as much as 50 percent of the world’s Emeralds are mined in Columbia, with the mines of Chivor, Muzo, and Coscuez producing the bulk. Other Emerald sources include northern Zambia, Bahaia, Brazil, Afghanistan, and North Carolina in the US.