Identifying Faux and Artificial Emeralds: A Guide
In the intricate world of gemology, a significant milestone was achieved in 1963 when the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) officially recognised vanadium-colored green beryls as natural emeralds. This decision, however, was not without controversy, as it stemmed from the stones' discovery in Brazil.
The debate centres around the subtle differences in the green hues of emeralds coloured by chromium compared to those coloured by vanadium. Chromium tends to produce a warmer, more intense pure green, while vanadium often results in a cooler, more bluish-green shade. While these differences can hint at the emerald's geographic origin, they do not alter the fundamental chemistry or status of the gemstone.
For instance, Colombian emeralds, known for their rich, warmer green, are typically coloured mainly by chromium, while Zambian emeralds, with their cooler, bluish-green tone, often owe their colour to vanadium. However, it's essential to note that the actual colouration can vary widely and overlap within emerald sources.
Emerald, a member of the beryl mineral family, is an allochromatic gem, meaning it is coloured by elements not intrinsic to its structure. The colouring elements, or chromophores, that give emerald its green colour are chromium and vanadium, either individually or in combination. If no colouring element is present in beryl, the beryl will be colorless, known as goshenite.
The stones coloured primarily or solely by vanadium are referred to as "green beryl." The identification of these green beryls as natural emeralds is a subject of debate among purists. The documentation of this long-running disagreement can be found in works by Hanni (1992) and Ward (2001).
The discovery of green beryls coloured by vanadium and the subsequent identification as natural emeralds followed years of lobbying and discussion. This event marked a significant shift in the gemology industry, expanding the definition of emerald and broadening the scope of this much-admired gemstone.
- The controversy surrounding the identification of green beryls as natural emeralds has led gemologists to delve into health-and-wellness aspects related to the green hues of emeralds, as some believe that the cooler, bluish-green shades of vanadium-colored emeralds may have stress-reducing properties due to their calming effect.
- In light of the discovery, the fusion of science and medical-conditions seems particularly relevant, as some fitness-and-exercise enthusiasts argue that specific shades of emerald jewelry could be used as a visual stimulant during workouts to enhance focus and improve performance.
- Meanwhile, nutritional experts are exploring the potential applications of emeralds in health-and-wellness products, such as gemstone-infused teas and supplements, based on the belief that the unique properties of emeralds can boost energy levels and support overall health and wellness.
