The Emeralds Garden

One of the most unique characteristics of an emerald is its inclusions. All emeralds are included, so people accept it, and at times, even value this trait. Inclusions or features within the stone are often referred to as its 'garden'. They are not considered 'a bad thing' unless they negatively impact the stone's integrity or significantly affect its ability to capture, reflect, and manipulate light.

Emeralds with inclusions that would be unacceptable in other gemstones are bought and sold every day at prices well above those of other 'non-included' gems. One has to look at each type of gem as its own distinct, individual species of stone and appreciate the differences, because each gem type is unique.

While on the subject of inclusions, it is also worth mentioning that stones from different sources often have certain inclusion traits that help determine the authenticity of the stone, as well as the origin. Trained eyes may even be able to tell which mine the emerald was taken from. In this way, inclusions can be helpful.

Certifying Colored Gemstones

A common question among customers is why all colored gemstones arn't certified. Simply put, the biggest reason not to certify is cost. Costs to certify a stone can range from $150 - $300 from a recognized, reputable, and independent organization such as the American Gemological Laboratories or the AGTA Gemological Testing Center.

Besides these two institutions, there are many agencies and organizations that may issue gem certifications- and some may do it for less- but jewelers and insurers do not recognize many of these 'unknown' certificates. Even worse, certificates might be issued by the sellers themselves, creating conflicts of interest.

If you require a certification, the best advice is to buy stones certified by an independent organization that is industry recognized. If there's any doubt, look up the certifying agency or organization on the web and form your own opinions based on what you find.

Healing Properties of Emeralds

Maybe there is something in the flash as it catches our eye, but for countless centuries we have been fascinated by something deep inside gemstones. Mystics and Mages long ago bestowed fantastic properties on precious stones such as rubies, sapphires, and emeralds.

It was said that the emerald possessed special healing abilities, able to restore both mental and physical health. It's possible that much of this stems from its deep green color, something we often associate with nature and peacefulness.

In particular, emeralds were said to aid in improving or restoring eyesight, though this may come from a legend in which the Roman Emperor Nero was said to wear a monocle made from emerald, in which he used to observe the athletic games.

Colombian Emeralds vs. Other Emeralds

Fact: It is undisputed in the gemstone and jewelry industry that the world's finest emeralds come from Colombia.

Often times the Muzo mine is mentioned by name. This is extraordinary compared to other precious gems. It is seldom the case for diamonds, sapphires, and rubies that one very specific source is so much more accepted for being superior gemstones, or is so much better known by name than the other mines or countries producing the same gem. Certainly, they have their famous names and their own acclaim, but it cannot be denied that Colombian emeralds stand out fare more when compared with their Brazilian and Zambian rivals.

On the average they are of higher quality, have better color, and are more sought after than other emeralds. Further, they are found in a more limited mining area which makes them even rarer and more highly valued.

Embassy Emeralds selects by hand each and every emerald you see on www.embassyemeralds.com from trusted suppliers in Muzo and other mines in Colombia.