Brazilian Emerald
Brazilian emerald characteristics, comparison with Colombian material, and market position.
By Fabian Moor
Last updated
brazil emerald beryl
Introduction
Sources
Brazilian emerald deposits:
Bahia
- Major producing state
- Several mining areas
- Variable quality production
- Significant historical output
Goiás
- Important emerald region
- Santa Terezinha notable deposit
- Different characteristics from Bahia
- Quality material available
Minas Gerais
- Some emerald production
- Secondary to other beryl varieties
- Limited but interesting material
- Belmont mine notable
Characteristics
What defines Brazilian emerald:
Colour
- Often lighter than Colombian
- May have yellowish modifier
- Best material rivals Colombian green
- Iron typically present (affects colour) [2]
Inclusions
- Different suite from Colombian
- Two-phase and three-phase inclusions
- Biotite mica common
- Pyrite sometimes present
- Less characteristic "jardin" than Colombian
Quality Range
- Commercial to fine quality
- Best stones excellent
- Larger sizes available
- Variable saturation
Colombian Comparison
Brazilian Emerald
- Often lighter green
- Different inclusion suite
- Generally lower prices
- Good value proposition
- Less oil treatment needed (some)
Colombian Emerald
- Classic rich green
- "Jardin" inclusions expected
- Highest market prices
- Strong brand recognition
- Oil treatment nearly universal {cite:read-2014-gemmology}
Treatment
Enhancement in Brazilian emerald:
Oil Treatment
- Common (as with all emerald)
- Cedar oil traditionally used
- Resin fillers also used
- Disclosure required
Treatment Level
- Minor to significant enhancement
- Some material requires less treatment
- Laboratory reports indicate level
- Untreated stones command premium
Market Position
Brazilian emerald in the trade:
- Ranking: Third tier after Colombia, Zambia
- Value: Below Colombian for comparable quality
- Advantage: Often better prices for quality
- Recognition: Less prestigious origin perception
- Niche: Some collectors appreciate distinct character
Imperial Topaz Note
References
- ↑ 1. Schumann, W. (2009). Gemstones of the World (4th ed.). Sterling Publishing. ISBN: 978-1-4027-6829-3.
- ↑ 2. Saeseaw, S.; Renfro, N.; Palke, A. (2019). Geographic Origin Determination of Emerald. Gems & Gemology, 55(4), 614–646. DOI: 10.5741/gems.55.4.614.