Colombian Muzo Emeralds
Discovered in the misty jungles of Colombia, the mesmerising, inimitable glow of the Muzo emerald has made this gemstone sought after and fought over for centuries.
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A Lustrous History
‘Muzo’ is a word that is inextricably linked to the world’s finest emeralds and has been for centuries. Located high up in the Andes, 60 miles north-west of Bogota, Muzo was home to a tribe of warriors who became known as the ‘emerald people’ thanks to their ability to extract the vibrant green stones that populated their land.
Archaeologists estimate that the Muzo emerald people were trading emeralds as early as 1000 BC but it wasn’t until The Inca period that the lucid green gems were set into ornate gold geometric designs resembling jewellery.
During the Spanish conquest of the New World in the 1500s, conquistadores discovered vast amounts of valuable commodities such as gold, silver, copper, indigo, pearls, and emeralds across the Americas. Among these, the discovery of emeralds in modern day Colombia was particularly exciting, as the only known deposits at this time were in Egypt and were exhausted.
In the 16th century, the Spanish conquistadors and latterly the British sought to take control of Northern Colombia and so began a long period of turmoil. Tribes and nations battled to claim the rich lands, bearing the most sought after of gems, to adorn their society and sovereignty, from Monarch to Maharajas.
The Ultimate Emeralds
From the late 17th to the early 19th centuries was when the most spectacular Muzo emeralds were discovered. Mining by hand meant that the fragile emerald crystals were less likely to be damaged and the chemical composition of veins close to the surface produced stones of an intense, forest green, with a noticeable streak of fluorescence.
This legendary gemstone was created millions of years ago when volcanic forces brought together the elements beryllium and chromium with vanadium, from ancient seabeds. The captivating glow, which is noticeable in the rough state is further enhanced at the hands of skilful gemstone cutters, who facet each discovery to reveal its inner radiance and life.
Modern Day Mining
Mines still operate in Muzo today under stringent criteria of sustainability and responsibility. The veins that produced those electrifying green stones above 3ct have long since been exhausted, with the vast majority now showing a yellow tint.
Many emeralds are treated with oil to fill internal fractures and enhance their colour. Pragnell selects only those stones that have received minor or no oil enhancement, using traditional methods rather than modern resin.
Untreated Muzo emeralds are exceptionally rare and command extraordinary prices to match - no wonder, then, that they remain some of the most sought-after gems in the world.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are the answers to our most commonly asked questions. Should you want to find out more please feel free to contact us and begin your Pragnell experience.
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