Carat

What is Carat?

Essentially, the weight of the gemstone. One carat is equivalent to 200 milligrams. One carat can also be divided into 100 “points.” A .75 carat emerald is the same as a 75-points or 3/4 carat emerald.

Carat is also often confused with size even though it is actually a measure of weight.

Larger = rarer

Emeralds occur in metamorphic rocks, which usually restricts the size of emerald crystals, making large sizes quite rare.

This unique aspect means that a 1-carat emerald will cost more than twice that of a 1/2-carat emerald (assuming colour, clarity and cut remain constant).

The composition of gems means that similar sized gems don’t necessarily weigh the same. So weight is just one means of identification. With emeralds you get a bigger jewel for the same weight as other major gems. Cut and mounting can make an Emerald appear larger (or smaller) than its actual weight. The appropriate setting will optimize the beauty of your stone.

Dimension

Dimension of gemstone is commonly measured in millimetres: Length x Width x Depth. Experts are always looking for a harmonious association between weight, dimension and shape.

Due to the exceptional formation of emeralds, in Colombia at the Muzo, Chivor, Coscuez and La Pita mines, these emeralds come with different specific gravity. Some emeralds are formed by lighter materials that endow them with bigger dimensions.

Usually emeralds from Chivor – Gachala are light; Coscuez, La Pita mine and other deposits are mid-weight and Muzo emeralds are sometimes a bit heavier.

Cut and carat weight have a decidedly secondary effect on Emerald values. BUT, very fine grades of Emerald over one carat are very rare and larger emeralds are often as valuable, if not more so, than similar sized diamonds.