BERYL VAR. EMERALD

ABOUT THE SPECIMEN

Two emeralds of excellent clarity, deep, rich color, and strong luster embedded in quartz matrix. The larger crystal measures to 1.2cm across, with the whole termination exposed, and both of the crystals exhibit their beryl morphology well. Muzo is without a doubt the king of emerald producing localities, and this is without a doubt a fine example from this famed locality!

MORE INFO

Colombia's Muzo mines sit within Lower Cretaceous organic-rich black shales deposited approximately 130 Ma in the Eastern Cordillera basin. Unlike most emerald deposits associated with igneous rocks, Muzo formed through hydrothermal-sedimentary processes where brines at 300°C dissolved evaporites, leaching beryllium while thermochemical sulfate reduction released chromium and vanadium trapped in black shales - all necessary elements for emerald crystallization. Crystals occur as hexagonal prisms in calcite veins, displaying the characteristic vivid "Muzo green" color with exceptional clarity and transparency, often reaching several centimeters. What distinguishes Muzo emeralds globally is their intense color saturation, large size, and distinctive three-phase inclusions containing liquid, gas, and solid sodium chloride crystals, plus occasional parisite or pyrite inclusions. Mining dates to pre-Columbian times, with Spanish exploitation beginning in the 16th century after indigenous Muzo people revealed the deposits. Modern operations under The Muzo Companies since 2009 have modernized extraction while prohibiting dynamite near veins to preserve crystal quality. Muzo remains the world's premier source for collector-grade emerald specimens and gem rough.