21.36 Ct. Cabochon Emerald from Zambia

One beautiful translucent ICA certified 21.36 carat cushion shape green emerald is offered by The Natural Emerald Company, a gem of substantial presence and classical charm. The stone measures 17.20 x 15.60 x 11.50 mm, and its sugar loaf cut gives a domed, almost pyramidal profile that concentrates color and depth. The laboratory color classification is Green with intense color intensity, and the finish displays an excellent polish that enhances surface luster and light return. ICA certification accompanies this emerald, providing independent confirmation of identity and basic treatment disclosure, which offers assurance and provenance for collectors and buyers who value documented origin and grading. When seen in hand the combination of size, translucency, and rich green saturation is immediately striking, making this gem suitable for a high impact pendant, statement ring, or a museum grade collection piece.

Clarity is graded as included, evaluated at eye level, which is a common and expected grade for natural emeralds of this size and color. The inclusions visible to the unaided eye are an authentic fingerprint of natural formation, often referred to by connoisseurs as jardin or garden in emeralds, and they tell a geological story rather than detract from desirability. In practical terms, inclusions in an included grade do affect light transmission, but in this example the intense color compensates and in many lighting conditions yields an appealing, saturated glow. Enhancement is listed as standard, a trade practice that typically means the stone has undergone accepted clarity enhancement processes in order to stabilize and improve visible clarity. Standard enhancement is an industry accepted disclosure that preserves value when fully documented, and knowledgeable buyers recognize that treated emeralds are not equivalent in market price to wholly untreated stones, while still commanding strong interest when color, size, and origin are exceptional.

The Zambian origin of this emerald is a significant factor in its appeal to an educated buyer, because Zambia has become a reliable source of richly saturated, durable emeralds with pleasing green tones. Geological formation and trace element chemistry in Zambian deposits often produce deeper, vivid greens with good crystallinity, and many Zambian stones show a slightly cooler undertone compared with other classic localities, which can be highly desirable in contemporary jewelry design. The sugar loaf cut on this cushion form is particularly effective for a translucent stone, because the domed facets concentrate and display color without relying on the light refraction that faceted cuts require. This cut also helps to mask some internal features while delivering a smooth, luminous surface. At 21.36 carats and with the listed dimensions, this emerald sits in a size category that is uncommon and therefore collectible, especially with an excellent polish that maximizes face up presence and tactile appeal.

For care, setting, and long term value considerations the following guidance is practical for buyers who plan to wear or invest in this gem. Mounting in a protective bezel or a substantial halo setting will reduce the risk of mechanical damage to the surface and to internal features, and it will also protect the stone during everyday wear. Clean gently with warm water and a mild detergent using a soft brush, and avoid ultrasonic cleaners and steam, because standard enhancements can be affected by aggressive cleaning methods. For long term conservation, professional reinspection every few years will determine if retreatment or reoil is advisable to refresh clarity and surface appearance. ICA certification and a full condition report from The Natural Emerald Company will support insurance, resale, or appraisal, giving documented provenance and treatment disclosure that knowledgeable buyers require. This emerald represents an opportunity to acquire a substantial, vividly colored natural stone with clear documentation, a classic sugar loaf presentation, and the lineage of a reputable source.