Emeralds primarily come in shades of green, specifically ranging from bluish-green to pure green. The exact color can vary depending on the emerald's origin and the specific trace elements present.
Emeralds are a variety of the mineral beryl, colored by trace amounts of chromium, vanadium, and iron. The presence and proportion of these elements dictate the specific green hue.
Here's a breakdown of the color variations you might encounter:
-
Pure Green: This is the most desirable and valuable emerald color. Colombian emeralds are often prized for their intense, pure green color.
-
Bluish-Green: Some emeralds have a distinct bluish undertone. Zambian emeralds are frequently characterized by this bluish-tinged green.
While the spectrum is primarily within shades of green, it's important to understand that color quality is judged not only on the hue, but also on the saturation and tone. Highly saturated, vibrant green emeralds are generally considered more valuable. The most sought-after emeralds possess a vivid green color with even color distribution and medium tone.
