Emeralds Around the World
Introduction
Colombia stands out as the top spot for emeralds, but these vibrant gems pop up in many places globally. Lately, we've seen a surge in output from fresh sites in South America and Africa. If you're into gems, it's worth exploring where emeralds come from outside of just Colombia- after all, variety keeps things interesting. For comprehensive details on this captivating gem, check out our detailed guide to emerald gemstones.
Emeralds in Colombia
The Muzo Mine, northwest of Bogota, ranks as Colombia's leading emerald source. Native Americans first mined it, then it lay forgotten until the 17th century. This site yields top-tier emeralds with a deep green color that sets the standard. Another major spot is the Chivor Mine, northeast of Bogota. New finds hint at even more potential ahead. That said, only about a third of Colombian emeralds make the cut for faceting.
Emeralds in Brazil
Brazil hosts emerald deposits in Bahia, Goias, and Minas Gerais. These stones lean lighter, often with a yellow-green tint compared to Colombian ones. Brazilian emeralds usually show fewer inclusions, which is a nice bonus for clarity. Since 1980, new discoveries have boosted Brazil to a key global supplier.
Emeralds in East Africa
Over recent decades, emeralds have turned up in various small deposits across East Africa, especially in Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Tanzania. These gems pack a strong color, sometimes with that sought-after blue-green shade. The Sandawana emeralds from southern Zimbabwe stand out- crystals are tiny, but their quality is outstanding. In particular, emeralds mined in Zambia stand out for their vivid hues.
Emeralds in South Africa
South Africa mines emeralds in the Northern Transvaal at places like the Cobra and Somerset mines, using modern equipment. However, only around 5% of the output qualifies as high quality. Most stones are pale or full of inclusions, better suited for cabochon cuts rather than facets.
Other Notable Emerald Deposits
India and Pakistan have significant emerald sources, along with Russia's Ural Mountains. Lesser-known deposits exist in Afghanistan, Australia, Ghana, Madagascar, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, and even North Carolina in the United States. In Europe, Austria and Norway have yielded emeralds too.
Historical Emerald Mines
Ancient Egypt boasted the most famous emerald mines, called the Cleopatra Mines or Mons Smaragdus. Mining started as far back as 2000 B.C. and continued for centuries. They fell out of use after Spaniards found emeralds in Colombia in 1545.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Colombian emeralds special?
Colombian emeralds are prized for their rich green hue and high quality, often coming from famous mines like Muzo and Chivor.
How do Brazilian emeralds compare to those from Colombia?
Brazilian emeralds tend to be lighter with a yellow-green tone and fewer inclusions, while Colombian ones are deeper green but may have more inclusions.
Where are emeralds mined in Africa?
Africa has emerald deposits in East Africa like Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Tanzania, as well as in South Africa and other countries such as Ghana, Madagascar, and Mozambique.
What is the history behind Egypt's emerald mines?
Egypt's Cleopatra Mines were active from around 2000 B.C. but were abandoned after the discovery of Colombian emeralds in 1545.
Are there emeralds in Europe or the United States?
Yes, emeralds have been found in Austria and Norway in Europe, and in North Carolina in the United States, though these are less prominent sources.
