0.48 Ct. Emerald from Afghanistan

This oval green emerald weighs 0.48 carat, and measures 5.40 by 4.32 by 3.50 millimeters, the profile presents as a classic elongated oval with well balanced proportions that support both face up presence and secure mounting. The gem is cut in a mixed brilliant configuration, the crown displays a combination of step and faceted pavilion geometry that optimizes scintillation while preserving the deep, saturated green. The table facet is proportioned to allow strong light return, and the pavilion facets have been oriented to channel internal reflections back through the crown, producing lively brilliance for an emerald of this size. The girdle appears to be consistent and faceted, allowing precise seat lines for bezel work or tight prong positioning, and the culet is minimal, preserved to maintain structural integrity while avoiding light leakage. Polish is graded excellent, which enhances facet junction definition and maximizes the gem s ability to manifest its intense color across varying lighting conditions.

Color evaluation for this piece registers as intense in color intensity, the hue is a vivid green with even saturation across the oval plane, and tone that reads medium to slightly deep, creating strong visual weight for the 0.48 carat size. Slight pleochroic behavior is present, typical of natural emeralds, producing subtle shifts between a pure green and a slightly bluish green when viewed from different angles. Clarity is described as slightly included when evaluated at eye level, which is consistent with natural emerald material, these internal characteristics provide a fingerprint for the stone, and they also interact with light to add depth and character without compromising durability. Enhancement is standard, the stone has undergone common clarity stabilization that is industry accepted, and the finish and facet junctions indicate careful lapidary technique applied to a material of Afghan origin, a provenance known for delivering strong color concentration and appealing crystalline structure.

From a craftsmanship and setting perspective, this oval mixed brilliant emerald lends itself to a wide range of customizations, each highlighting different attributes of the stone. For a ring center, a four or six prong mounting with slightly lowered prongs along the pavilion will allow maximum light entrance and emphasize the stone s intense hue, a low profile bezel with a thin bezel lip will protect the girdle and accentuate the oval silhouette while preserving optical performance. For pendant applications, an open backed bezel or three prong bail oriented along the long axis will permit light to enter from the rear, showcasing the piece s internal depth and pleochroism, while a secure basket mount will be preferable for active wear. In earrings, matched pairs may be emulated using similar cuts, or a single oval may be set in a halo of small brilliant diamonds to increase apparent size and enhance perceived color through contrast with white light reflecting stones.

Design adaptations that consider orientation, metal choice, and complementary stones will maximize the gem s potential in bespoke jewelry pieces. Orienting the stone with the long axis perpendicular to the finger will often concentrate the richest green along the viewer s line of sight, while east west mounting will create a modern profile emphasizing horizontal presence. Choice of metal will influence perceived color, 18 karat yellow gold will warm the stone and emphasize its green saturation, neutral white metals such as platinum or 18 karat white gold will provide high contrast that makes the green appear more vivid, and rose gold will introduce a soft warm contrast that can subtly alter the visual tone. Surround settings such as diamond halos, tapered shoulder diamonds, or tapered baguettes will amplify light return and perceived size, whereas a solitaire, flush, or tension mount will deliver a cleaner, museum like aesthetic that showcases the stone s mixed brilliant facets and excellent polish. For bespoke commitments, The Natural Emerald Company can provide CAD previews, recommendations for prong thickness based on the measured girdle, and guidance on setting back openings to balance protection with optical exposure, ensuring the final piece is both secure and optimized for light performance.