Clarity in Emeralds
The Character Within: Understanding Emerald Clarity
Unlike diamonds, where clarity is graded using a loupe, emeralds are evaluated by the unaided eye. Emeralds are a Type III gemstone, meaning they almost always exhibit visible inclusions.
The rare emeralds that show no inclusions to the naked eye are considered exceptionally fine and may cost two to three times more than emeralds of similar color and carat weight. An emerald without visible inclusions is often referred to as “flawless” in the trade, even though minor internal features may still be present under magnification.
The evocative term jardin — French for “garden” — is often used to describe the natural internal landscape of emeralds.
The types and patterns of inclusions can also provide valuable clues about the emerald’s geographic origin.
| Inclusion Type | Description | Common Source |
|---|---|---|
| Three-Phase Inclusions | Tiny cavities containing a liquid, gas bubble, and crystal | Colombia (very typical) |
| Needles and Veils | Fine needle-like inclusions arranged in veil patterns | Zambia, Brazil |
| Mica Plates | Flat, reflective inclusions | Brazil |
| Pyrite Crystals | Small, metallic-looking inclusions (gold color) | Colombia |
| Calcite Crystals | White, cloudy crystal inclusions | Colombia, Brazil |
| Growth Tubes (“Fingers”) | Hollow growth structures, sometimes filled with fluid | Colombia, Zambia |
| Jardin (General Term) | A network of various inclusions resembling a garden | Found in emeralds worldwide |
| Color Zoning | Uneven color distribution due to growth patterns | Can occur in any origin |