Emeralds
Emeralds are the green variety of the mineral beryl, coloured by traces of chromium or vanadium, and graded above all on the depth and evenness of that green. Most emeralds carry natural inclusions — the jardin — and nearly all are oiled or resin-filled to soften the look of surface-reaching fractures. Our emeralds do not come from our own mines: they are hand-selected by our FGAA gemmologist from cutters we have dealt with for years, then graded and disclosed in Sydney to the same standard we apply to sapphires from our own Ceylon gem fields.
We do not mine emeralds, so we buy them the way we would buy for ourselves: stone by stone, through cutting houses our family has known for decades. Every emerald leaves us with its treatment stated in writing, independent laboratory certification available on request, and free lifetime re-authentication.
Common questions
How much does an emerald cost per carat?
Emerald pricing is driven mostly by colour, then clarity and cut. In Australia, commercial-quality stones typically run from a few hundred dollars per carat; good mid-range emeralds with lively green and moderate oiling sit roughly between AUD 1,500 and 6,000 per carat; and fine, minimally treated stones with saturated colour can exceed AUD 20,000 per carat. Larger sizes rise disproportionately.
Are emeralds treated or oiled?
Yes — the great majority of emeralds on the market are oiled or resin-filled. Cedarwood oil or a clear resin is drawn into surface-reaching fractures to make them less visible. It is an accepted, centuries-old practice rather than a defect, and grades run from none through minor and moderate to significant. Heavier treatment lowers value, so we state the grade on every stone we sell.
What is the difference between Zambian and Colombian emeralds?
Colombian emeralds are known for a pure, slightly warm green with a soft glow, and they carry the strongest name recognition. Zambian emeralds are usually cooler and more bluish-green, a little darker in tone, and often cleaner with fewer fractures, which can mean less oil is needed. Neither origin is automatically superior; a fine Zambian stone will outprice a mediocre Colombian one.
Are emeralds durable enough for an engagement ring?
Yes, with sensible setting and care. Emerald is beryl at 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale — hard enough for daily wear — but its natural fractures make it more brittle than sapphire, so a bezel or otherwise protected setting is wise. Never clean an emerald in an ultrasonic or steam cleaner; it can strip the oil. Warm water, mild soap and a soft brush is all it needs.
