0.36 Ct. Emerald from Afghanistan

This specimen is a transparent 0.36 carat asscher octagon shape emerald, with exact dimensions 4.60 by 4.51 by 2.54 mm, and an asscher cut executed to emphasize square symmetry with truncated corners. The clarity grade is very slightly included evaluated at eye level, offering high visual transparency with only minimal internal characteristics visible without magnification. Color intensity is assessed as medium, presenting a well saturated green that remains true across angles, and the finish exhibits excellent polish which preserves sharp facet junctions and crisp facet planes. Enhancement is standard, consistent with industry practice to stabilize clarity and visual depth, and origin is Afghanistan, a source known for producing stones with cool green tones and fine transparency. The Natural Emerald Company provides this gem with full disclosure of these technical attributes, and our grading reflects visual inspection under controlled lighting and magnification.

The asscher cut on this piece employs broad step facets on both crown and pavilion to generate the classic concentric square flash pattern often referred to as a hall of mirrors effect. The table facet is proportioned to favor large, broad flashes rather than high scintillation, and the truncated corners form a precise octagonal outline that aids in secure mounting. Measured depth relative to face dimensions yields a depth percent approximately 55.8 percent, a proportion that balances internal light return with face up spread. Facet alignment is precise, symmetry is tight, and the excellent polish minimizes surface diffraction and preserves angular facet mirrors. These cutting choices intentionally prioritize depth of color and internal reflectance over extreme brilliance, which is characteristic of step cuts and is especially effective in emerald material where color of body is the primary visual asset.

The medium color intensity of this Afghan emerald displays a cool, slightly bluish green bias under neutral daylight, with subtle pleochroic behavior that shifts toward a marginally yellowish green when viewed under certain angles or through directional light. Color distribution is uniform across the table and pavilion facets, with no zonal banding apparent, allowing the asscher step planes to reflect consistent green saturation. The very slightly included rating, evaluated at eye level, indicates minor inclusions such as small needles or pinpoint crystals and fine fissures that are typical of natural emeralds and contribute to the gemological character without detracting from visual appeal. Standard enhancement has been applied to minimize the visibility of surface reaching fissures and to stabilize the stone, using established colorless clarity filling techniques that do not alter the intrinsic hue or optical properties. The craftsmanship preserves the natural character of the stone, allowing collectors and setters to appreciate authentic internal features while presenting a clean, bright face up appearance.

Under different lighting conditions this asscher emerald exhibits distinct yet predictable behavior. In cool, north daylight or full spectrum daylight sources the gem reads as a pure, medium green with maximum body color saturation and balanced contrast between facet planes, the step facets producing broad flashes of color with low scintillation. Under warm incandescent sources the perceived green may warm subtly, revealing faint yellowish green secondary tones while the step cutting maintains large, soft flashes rather than pinfire sparkle. Under directional LED or halogen spot lighting the truncated corners and step facets create pronounced hall of mirrors reflections along facet boundaries, producing strong internal light contrast that emphasizes clarity and facet geometry. In diffused interior lighting the gem offers a more uniform, velvety green field with subdued flashes, making it ideal for settings where even color is desired. For jewelry design considerations, the asscher profile and depth favor settings that expose the table to light, such as open four prong or low bezel settings, and pairing with colorless accent stones enhances contrast and perceived saturation. For technical inquiries or to request viewing under specified light sources, The Natural Emerald Company can provide detailed imaging and viewing recommendations tailored to professional mounting and appraisal requirements.