The Allure of Emeralds

Throughout human history, people have used emeralds for adornment as a symbol of life and regrowth. Emeralds were a favorite stone of Cleopatra, were studied by Pliny the Elder, and were crafted into jewels by the Incas. Today, emeralds are considered one of the most valuable colored gemstones in the market. Emeralds are the medium light to dark green variety of the mineral Beryl, sometimes exhibiting a slightly yellow or blue hue. The most important factor in purchasing emeralds is color, which can often indicate their geographic origin and is influenced by the cutting style. Emeralds are cut to intensify their distinctive green color while minimizing weight loss from the original rough stone. Major sources include Colombia, Zambia, and Brazil, although emeralds are found elsewhere as well. Emeralds often include inclusions, and they are expected to have eye-visible flaws, unlike diamonds. Oil is the most common and accepted clarity enhancement to improve these flaws.

Two exquisite emerald and diamond jewels are being offered in the September 23rd Important Jewelry Auction. The first is a stunning statement ring centering a cushion-shaped Colombian emerald weighing approximately 10.25 carats. The emerald is flanked by two pear-shaped diamonds totaling approximately 3.00 carats and set in a glamorous platinum and diamond setting. Colombian emeralds are famous for their high quality and intensely saturated color, and this stone reflects that reputation.

The September 23rd Important Jewelry auction will also feature an important pair of earrings, set with two cushion-shaped Zambian emeralds, weighing 15.03 and 14.58 carats, respectively. Each emerald is suspended from an emerald-cut diamond weighing 3.51 carats and a round brilliant-cut diamond weighing either 1.07 or 1.02 carats. Zambian emeralds are especially known for a deeper, slightly bluish green color, and typically have better clarity than emeralds mined in other regions. The overall effect of these earrings is magnificent. The diamonds expertly balance out the emeralds, enhancing their richness and depth of color.

It is easy to understand why collectors worldwide have been drawn to emeralds for centuries. Their rarity, beauty, and versatility in jewelry have secured their status as one of the most expensive and highly coveted gemstones.

INQUIRIES: arielbarkan@freemansauction.com
VIEWING: September 18 – 22
1550 W Carroll Street, Chicago, IL

TO BE OFFERED SEPTEMBER 23, CHICAGO
Lot 112
Colombian Emerald, Diamond, and Platinum Ring
Estimate: $60,000 – 80,000
Property from an Important Midwest Collection

TO BE OFFERED SEPTEMBER 23, CHICAGO
Lot 109
Important Emerald and Diamond Earrings
Estimate: $125,000 – 175,000