0.42 Ct. Emerald from Colombia

This transparent 0.42 carat asscher octagon shape emerald from Colombia presents an elegant balance of size, color, and craftsmanship, offered with the full provenance and disclosure standards of The Natural Emerald Company. The stone measures 5.01 by 4.73 by 2.72 mm, with an asscher cut that creates a broad table and concentric step facets designed to emphasize clarity and depth. Color is described as light intensity, giving the gem a bright, fresh green that reads as lively and cheery in both daylight and indoor lighting. Clarity has been graded as very slightly included, evaluated at eye level, which for the educated buyer means the inclusions are subtle, do not compromise the gem structure, and are often only apparent upon close inspection. Polish is excellent, which enhances the overall face up appearance by producing crisp facet junctions and clean light return. The origin of Colombia contributes to the desirability of this stone, as Colombian emeralds are historically prized for their hue and natural saturation, and the enhancement is standard, consistent with industry practice and fully disclosed.

Understanding why the asscher cut is particularly well suited to this emerald will help in selecting the ideal setting and appreciating its value proposition. The step cut geometry of the asscher creates large, open facets and a pronounced table, which makes any internal characteristics more visible than in a brilliant cut, while also revealing the true color and clarity of the rough. In this instance, the very slightly included grading at eye level indicates that inclusions are present but minimal, allowing the stone to maintain transparency and a clean visual field that complements the geometric brilliance of the asscher design. Standard enhancement, commonly used on emeralds, refers to stabilizing substances introduced into surface reaching fissures to enhance clarity and durability. When disclosed and performed according to trade norms, this treatment is accepted by connoisseurs and does not detract from long term value, especially when the stone exhibits fine polish and well centered faceting, as this gem does.

From a value perspective this 0.42 carat Colombian emerald offers an attractive proposition to an educated buyer seeking quality with responsible disclosure. Colombian origin is sought after for its historical association with some of the finest emerald material, and even at a lighter color intensity, a well cut asscher can present an impressive face up presence. The combination of very slightly included clarity and excellent polish means the gem will sit beautifully in a design where the faceting can be appreciated, such as in a solitaire or a halo setting, while the standard enhancement is fully disclosed so there are no surprises for the purchaser. Millimeter measurements and carat weight allow precise planning for bespoke work, and the excellent polish indicates careful finishing at the lapidary stage, which preserves light performance and resale desirability. When evaluating price versus quality, collectors and designers will note that provenance, cut, and finishing quality often command as much influence on perceived value as sheer size, making this emerald a refined choice for a particularist client.

In custom jewelry, this asscher octagon emerald pairs harmoniously with several complementary gemstones and metal choices, depending on whether the design intent is contrast, harmony, or vintage inspired geometry. For a classic and luminous presentation, colorless diamonds in a fine halo or tapered baguette side stones will increase apparent size and intensify the green by contrast, while maintaining a clean, contemporary aesthetic. For a bolder, color forward scheme, deep blue sapphires set as shoulder stones create a striking cool contrast that draws attention to the emeralds verdant tone. Warmer designs can be achieved with champagne or cognac diamonds which add a subtle warmth to the palette and can suit yellow gold settings beautifully. For a soft romantic composition, pairing this emerald with peach or blush morganite or pale pink sapphire produces a gentle complementary palette that reads modern and feminine, especially in rose gold. In terms of setting style, a protective bezel or low profile prong setting will safeguard the stone for everyday wear, given emeralds natural inclusions, while a high halo or open gallery setting will maximize light entry for brilliance. For an asscher cut, symmetrical side stones such as tapered baguettes, trapezoids, or smaller step cut emeralds maintain the architectural integrity of the design, and delicate melee in a micro halo will emphasize the table without overwhelming the central stone. The Natural Emerald Company can assist with bespoke design recommendations, providing guidance on metal choice, supporting stone sizes, and secure settings that best showcase the asscher faceting and Colombian color, ensuring the finished piece reflects both aesthetic intent and informed gemological standards.