Free-form faceted emeralds from Zambia. Deep green with characteristic natural inclusions. Stock selected at a wholesale lapidary market. Non-calibrated format — each piece is distinct.
Piece Details
| Mineral |
Emerald (green beryl, Be₃Al₂Si₆O₁₈) |
| Dimensions |
Free-form — approx. 8-15 mm on the major axis (variable per piece) |
| Shape and Back |
Free-form faceted, variable back |
| Finish |
Faceted mirror polish |
| Hardness |
7.5-8 Mohs — suitable for setting; we recommend a bezel setting to protect edges in rings |
| Origin |
Zambia |
| Treatment |
Untreated |
| Piece Type |
Unique piece due to free-form shape |
This specific piece
Zambian emeralds are distinguished from Colombian ones by a darker green with a slight bluish hue, a result of a higher concentration of vanadium and chromium. Inclusions — the "garden" of the emerald — are inherent to the natural formation of beryl in schist and do not affect the structural integrity of the piece.
The free-form facet is a lapidary decision: the priority is to recover the maximum weight of the stone and preserve the most intense green, even if it means sacrificing a regular silhouette. The result is pieces with their own visual character.
For what mounting it works
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Custom bezel setting (sterling silver or gold) — the free form requires a bezel custom-built for each piece; the result is a unique designer jewel.
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Pendants with irregular settings — the free form works well in asymmetrical pendants where the shape of the stone dictates the design.
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Wire wrap — especially suitable for irregular shapes; the wire adapts to any silhouette without the need for a setting.
Emerald in lapidary tradition
Mayans and Aztecs revered emerald above gold. Incas mined emeralds from Muzo (Colombia) centuries before European arrival, and Cleopatra had her own mines in Sinai. The Roman Smaragdus was synonymous with fertility and renewal. In crystal tradition, emerald is associated with hope, growth, and long-term vision — the stone of the one who plants and waits.
The symbolic properties attributed to minerals belong to cultural and historical traditions. They are shared for educational purposes, not as medical advice or a substitute for professional care.
How to recognize genuine emerald
Natural emerald has visible inclusions under magnification (the "garden"): fibers, biotite crystals, colored fractures. Synthetic emerald (Chatham, Gilson) is practically perfect under 10x magnification. Green glass has a different luster and can be scratched with steel. Zambian emerald has a slightly bluer tone than Colombian.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it natural Zambian emerald or imitation?
Natural Zambian emerald. No detectable treatment. Statement based on lapidary observation; the piece does not include formal gemological certification.
What mounting do you recommend for a free form?
Wire wrap or custom-built bezel. The free form requires the jeweler to adapt the setting to the specific silhouette of each stone — it is the basis of designer jewelry.
Are inclusions a defect?
No. Inclusions are the marker of authenticity for natural emerald. An emerald without visible inclusions under magnification is almost invariably synthetic or excessively oil-treated.
What makes each piece unique?
Free form is by definition unrepeatable: the silhouette of each stone depends on the original fragment and the lapidary decision to preserve the maximum weight with the most intense green.
How is it cared for?
Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and steam (they can open microfractures). Clean with a soft cloth and warm water. More on jewelry care.
See also: cabochon collection · faceted gemstones.
