2.09 Ct.Tw.Total Carat Weight Cabochon Emerald Pair from Afghanistan

This matched pair comprises a 0.93 carat and a 1.16 carat cushion shaped emerald, presented in a sugar loaf cut, with dimensions 5.82 x 5.75 x 3.95 mm and 5.90 x 5.71 x 4.73 mm respectively, each stone demonstrating transparent to semi transparent body tone and an excellent polish. The cushion outline is retained with gently rounded corners and a high domed crown characteristic of the sugar loaf treatment, providing a broad face up appearance while maintaining sufficient depth to preserve saturation and stone integrity. Faceting emphasis is placed on large smooth facets on the crown to enhance color rather than fire, which is appropriate for emerald material where color is the primary value determinant. The pair has been calibrated for visual balance, the slight weight difference being accommodated by nearly identical table dimensions and crown height to ensure symmetry when set in matched jewelry designs.

Color evaluation indicates a vivid green intensity with a strong medium to slightly deep tone, producing an even, saturated face up color that is characteristic of fine Afghan material. Hue leans squarely toward pure green with minimal bluish modifier, and the saturation is robust enough to read as vivid under standard daylight illumination. Optical behavior includes moderate pleochroism typical of emerald beryl, where green and slightly bluish green directions are observable under directional light, and the sugar loaf geometry favors color concentration at the table creating a visually immediate intensity. Given the refractive index range of beryl species and the transparency of these stones, light return is balanced between transmitted color and surface luster, yielding a lively, saturated appearance without excessive windowing.

Clarity is graded as slightly included at eye level, noting internal features that include fine growth zoning, thin needle and feather networks, and minor two phase or three phase inclusions that are stable and characteristic for natural emeralds. These inclusions do not materially detract from the vivid color presence, and they contribute to the natural provenance of the stones. Enhancement is standard, which for emeralds typically involves the introduction of a refractive index matched filler to reduce the visual impact of surface reaching fissures, and this standard treatment is considered stable with appropriate handling. Care recommendations include avoiding prolonged exposure to heat and harsh chemicals, limiting ultrasonic cleaning if the stone has been treated, and using gentle warm soapy water and a soft brush for routine maintenance.

Origin is Afghanistan, a source known for producing intensely colored emeralds with fine crystalline structure, and the material presented here reflects those regional characteristics in hue and saturation. For mounting, the sugar loaf profile favors low bezel or semi bezel settings to protect the domed crown and secure the girdle, while open backed or gallery settings can be used when the design intention is to maximize light transmission and display color. These stones will perform exceptionally well as a matched pair in earrings, side by side in a ring gallery, or as complementary accents in a pendant set, and they are sized for comfortable daily wear when set with protective mounting. For additional gemological data, specific gravity and refractive index readings can be provided upon request, and The Natural Emerald Company is available to assist with bespoke mounting recommendations or professional imaging and certification options.