Ethiopian emeralds

Ethiopian emeralds have gained attention in the gem world due to their vibrant green color and relative affordability compared to Colombian or Zambian emeralds. Discovered in the Southern Oromia region, specifically in a place called Shakiso, these emeralds started to enter the global market in 2016. Ethiopian emeralds stand out for their distinct beauty, clarity, and unique formation.

Here are some key aspects of Ethiopian emeralds:

1. Color

• Ethiopian emeralds are known for their rich, vivid green hues. While they may sometimes have slight blue or yellow undertones, many display a pure green color, which is highly desirable in the gemstone market.

2. Clarity

• Compared to other emeralds, Ethiopian emeralds often exhibit better clarity. Though inclusions are common in emeralds due to their geological formation, the Ethiopian stones frequently have fewer and less obvious inclusions, making them more transparent and appealing. However, it's not uncommon to see typical emerald inclusions like fine fractures and “jardin” (garden-like) inclusions.

3. Treatment

• Many Ethiopian emeralds undergo minor oil treatments, a common practice to enhance the appearance of emeralds by filling fractures and improving clarity. However, some Ethiopian emeralds are left untreated due to their relatively high natural clarity.

4. Price

• One of the appealing factors of Ethiopian emeralds is that they tend to be more affordable than their Colombian and Zambian counterparts, even for stones with good color and clarity. This is due to their relatively recent introduction to the market and lesser-known origin.

5. Mining Conditions

• Ethiopia’s emerald mining is still in its early stages compared to other well-established emerald sources, but the country has shown potential for producing high-quality stones. The emeralds are mined by local miners in small-scale operations, contributing to the development of the region.

6. Geological Origin

• Ethiopian emeralds are found in pegmatite veins, which is different from the hydrothermal origin of Colombian emeralds. This geological difference contributes to their unique physical properties.

Overall, Ethiopian emeralds offer a beautiful alternative to more traditional sources and are becoming increasingly popular due to their vibrant color, clarity, and affordability.