1.21 Ct. Emerald from Zambia

Emeralds have been revered across continents and centuries, treasured by pharaohs, emperors, and poets for their deep association with renewal, wisdom, and enduring beauty, and this exceptional cushion shape gem carries that same lineage. At 1.21 carats, this transparent green emerald presents itself with an elegant presence that is both intimate and commanding, its dimensions of 6.45 x 6.20 x 4.89 mm offering a balanced silhouette that sits beautifully in a range of settings. Cut into a classic cushion outline with a mixed brilliant facet arrangement, the gem harmonizes the soft, rounded profile of an age old form with the scintillating brilliance of contemporary cutting technique. Originating from Zambia, a region celebrated for producing vibrant, clean emeralds with rich chroma, this stone bears the historical weight of traditional mines while reflecting modern standards of cutting and polish. The Natural Emerald Company is proud to present a gem that speaks to the timeless appeal of emeralds, a piece that seems to carry the memory of ancient courts while being perfectly suited to the modern jewelers palette.

What sets this emerald apart is the intensity of its green, an intense color that evokes lush tropical canopies and the storied gardens that have inspired artists for millennia. The gem has been evaluated as slightly included at eye level, a characteristic that often accompanies natural emeralds and which adds a sense of authenticity and depth, allowing light to move through the stone in a way that yields subtle internal life and character. The mixed brilliant cut was chosen to maximize this inner glow, combining larger pavilion facets with a thoughtful crown arrangement to produce flashes of fire and a velvety depth unique to high quality green emeralds. An excellent polish enhances the surface luster and encourages the stone to sing under any light source, whether the soft glow of candlelight or bright daylight. The enhancement is standard, a common and accepted treatment in the trade that stabilizes and clarifies while preserving the gem s natural beauty and provenance. These technical attributes together form a stone that is at once refined and resonant with the traceable legacy of its origin.

Versatility is one of the most compelling attributes of this emerald, as it transitions effortlessly from casual to formal, from everyday elegance to red carpet refinement. Set simply in a sleek gold bezel, the gem becomes a modern touchstone, an unobtrusive talisman worn close to the skin that complements linen shirts and afternoon gatherings. In a more elaborate setting with a halo of brilliant cut diamonds, the same cushion emerald takes on regal proportions, ready to be the centerpiece of a statement ring or pendant for evening occasions and ceremonial moments. The modest carat weight and ideal proportions make it especially adaptable for bespoke creations, whether paired with rose gold to warm the green, white gold or platinum to sharpen its brilliance, or yellow gold to enhance its vintage sensibility. Caring for this emerald is straightforward, with gentle cleaning and occasional professional attention recommended to preserve its polish and brilliance, and its standard enhancement should be considered in routine care. At The Natural Emerald Company we value transparency and provenance, and we stand behind this Zambian emerald as a piece that bridges the past and present, crafted for those who honor legacy while expressing their own modern story. If you seek a gem that embodies history, beauty, and practical versatility, this cushion shape emerald is an enduring choice that will become an heirloom for the generations to come.