The most expensive types of emeralds are those with the highest quality in terms of color, clarity, and origin. The most desirable emerald colors are bluish-green to pure green, with vivid color saturation and a tone that’s not too dark. Highly transparent emeralds with evenly distributed color and no eye-visible color zoning are the most prized[1]. Colombian emeralds, in particular, are known for their exceptional quality and can command premium prices[2]. The rarest and most expensive emeralds are mined from Muzo, Coscuez, and Chivor in the green foothills of the Colombian Andes[2].
The Rockefeller Emerald is the most expensive emerald in the world, valued at $5.5 million USD[3]. It is the largest flawless emerald and has a bluish-green color with medium tone and perfect saturation[3]. The high price of this emerald is due to its exceptional clarity, color, and rarity.
Other factors that contribute to the value of an emerald include its size and the presence of inclusions. Larger emeralds with fewer inclusions are generally more valuable[4]. However, inclusions are more tolerated in emeralds than in other gemstones, and top-quality, unenhanced stones can bring as much as 50% more in price than treated stones of the same size, color, and clarity[5].
In summary, the most expensive types of emeralds are those with the highest quality in terms of color, clarity, and origin, such as Colombian emeralds from Muzo, Coscuez, and Chivor. The Rockefeller Emerald is the most expensive emerald in the world due to its exceptional clarity, color, and rarity.
Citations:
[1] https://www.gia.edu/emerald-quality-factor
[2] https://www.christies.com/features/10-historic-emeralds-sold-at-Christies-10055-1.aspx
[3] https://emeralds.com/education/rockefeller-emerald/
[4] https://emeralds.com/education/emerald-characteristics/judging-emerald-quality/
[5] https://hubertjewelry.com/emerald-gemology/
