About Natural Emerald
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Hardness
Emeralds, a stunning type of beryl, combine beauty and durability with a Mohs hardness of 7.5 to 8. Renowned for their vibrant green color, they often feature unique inclusions, known as "jardin," which enhance their individuality but can make them more delicate. While strong enough for regular wear, emeralds benefit from gentle handling to avoid potential damage, particularly in high-contact settings like rings. Secure designs, such as bezels or halos, can provide added protection, allowing these remarkable gems to shine for generations.
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Color Range & Varieties
Emeralds are celebrated for their vivid green hues, which can range from light, grassy tones to deep, rich forest greens. The intensity of their color depends on the presence of chromium, vanadium, and iron, with higher chromium and vanadium content producing more vibrant greens. Colombian emeralds, known for their exceptional color quality, often exhibit the most desirable bluish-green tones, while emeralds from Zambia typically feature a deeper, cooler green with hints of bluish-gray.
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Origin, Stability, & Treatments
Origin
Emeralds are found in several locations around the world, and their color and characteristics can vary depending on their origin.
Colombia
Colombia is the most famous source of emeralds, producing stones with a rich, vibrant green color. Colombian emeralds are highly prized for their exceptional hue and often have fewer secondary tones, making them the standard for quality in the gemstone world.Zambia
Emeralds from Zambia are known for their deep, saturated green color with a slight bluish tint. They are often more durable due to fewer inclusions and are considered some of the finest stones in the global market.Brazil
Brazilian emeralds are lighter in color, often displaying a bright green hue. They are appreciated for their clarity and large crystal sizes, making them an excellent choice for striking jewelry pieces.Ethiopia
Ethiopian emeralds are a newer discovery and are gaining recognition for their bright green color and relatively high clarity. These stones often display unique characteristics, making them stand out in the market.Afghanistan
Emeralds from Afghanistan, particularly from the Panjshir Valley, are known for their rich green color and fine clarity, rivaling the quality of Colombian stones. These gems are highly sought after for their beauty and rarity.Pakistan
Emeralds from Pakistan, especially those from the Swat Valley, are celebrated for their vivid green hue and excellent clarity. These stones often feature a rich, velvety appearance that adds to their appeal.Zimbabwe
Zimbabwean emeralds, primarily from the Sandawana mines, are small but display a highly saturated green color. Despite their size, their vivid color makes them highly valuable.Stability & Treatments
Emeralds are known for their captivating green color, but they are naturally more fragile due to inclusions, often called "jardin." These inclusions can make emeralds less durable than some other gemstones, and proper care is required when wearing them, especially in rings.
To enhance their appearance, most natural emeralds undergo oil or resin treatments to fill surface-reaching fractures, improving clarity and durability. These treatments are widely accepted in the industry, though they may require periodic maintenance as oils can dry out over time.
At Lavender Creek Gems, we disclose all treatments on our colored gemstones to ensure transparency and help customers care for their treasures.