Editor’s Note
This article examines the enduring appeal of emeralds in the global market, highlighting a key shift in consumer focus from origin to intrinsic gem quality as the primary purchasing criterion.
As a precious gemstone with legendary historical charm, emeralds have consistently garnered attention in the international colored gemstone market. Meanwhile, today’s buyers are adopting a more open attitude towards emeralds from different origins, with the quality of the gemstone remaining the most crucial factor in purchasing decisions.
Emeralds have long enjoyed a prestigious reputation in the colored gemstone world and are among the most cherished gems by connoisseurs and jewelers. Their vibrant green color—reminiscent of nature’s lush forests and symbolizing hope and the beginning of all things—gives emeralds a distinctive image.
Michael Haag, Director of ColEmerald Ltd, stated:
A company representative indicated that market demand for emeralds has shown an upward trend in recent years. Emeralds weighing 10 carats or more, of medium to fine quality, are particularly popular. The growth momentum primarily comes from Asia, especially Hong Kong, Malaysia, Singapore, and Mainland China. The best-selling items are 3 to 5-carat emeralds with slight treatment and good color, priced between $2,000 and $3,000 per carat. Emeralds weighing 10 to 15 carats, priced between $3,000 and $4,000 per carat, are also very popular.
Rising market demand means prices for Colombian emeralds are climbing steadily. However, the local mining situation and supply volume are concerning, as only a few areas in Colombia produce emerald rough, leading to unstable supply. “In addition to sourcing medium to fine quality emeralds from Colombia, we are also exploring new deposits in Ethiopia.”
Irfan Takat, Director of Takat Gems (HK) Co., which deals in emeralds, revealed:
Shlomo Eshed, Managing Director of Gemerald Ltd, agrees with this trend, noting that the market importance of Zambian emeralds has been rising over the past year as demand gradually increases.
Mr. Eshed stated that the most popular cuts in the market include emerald cuts and cushion cuts.
He added that emeralds are the best match for diamonds but are more susceptible to fluctuations in consumer income than diamonds. In recent years, rising average incomes in Mainland China and Eastern Europe have positively contributed to the long-term development of the emerald market, with the Asian market also steadily growing. He believes that as the output of high-quality emeralds decreases, supply shortages will help further consolidate gemstone prices.
Jain Divya from another emerald dealer, LRS Gems Ltd, also believes that buyers are increasingly willing to accept emeralds from other origins.
Oren Nhaissi, Managing Director of New York-based Colombian emerald trader Emco Gem Inc, emphasized that quality remains the top priority for consumers when purchasing emeralds. He noted that the US, Asian, and European markets all have demand for commercial-grade to fine-quality emeralds. He pointed out that Colombian emeralds, once beloved by royal families and celebrities, hold even greater appeal for current buyers; the captivating color and scarcity of emeralds also enhance their value.