Reading an emerald report

Inclusions, oiling grades and origin: what the lab card actually tells you.

Emerald (panna) is Mercury's stone, worn for intellect, speech and business sense. Almost every emerald has inclusions, and almost every emerald is treated in some way, so the lab report is where you learn what you are really buying.

The lines that matter

Identification: should read natural emerald (beryl). Anything else, such as synthetic or hydrothermal, is not a natural panna. - Clarity enhancement: emeralds are commonly filled with oil or resin to hide fissures. Reports grade this as none, minor, moderate or significant. Minor oiling is normal; significant filling lowers value and durability. - Origin: Colombia, Zambia and Brazil are common. Origin affects price and the look of the colour, not authenticity. - Weight and measurements: check them against the stone you receive.

Inclusions are expected

Emerald inclusions are called jardin (garden). A completely clean emerald is rare and very costly; a stone with no visible inclusions at a low price deserves a second look at the report.

Verify the number

Every reputable lab lets you check a report number on its website. Do that before the return window closes. Emerald is traditionally set in gold and worn on the little finger on a Wednesday morning.