170,000 carats of Colombian emeralds hit international auction markets: VIdeo

The auction's first phase, held in Bogotá, drew attention from international buyers; the second phase is scheduled to take place in Bangkok from November 21 to 25.

The auction follows closely on the heels of a record-breaking sale in Geneva, where a rare 37-carat emerald, originally owned by the Aga Khan, fetched nearly $9 million at Christie's, setting a new record as the world’s most expensive green gemstone.

The Cartier diamond and emerald brooch, which can also be worn as a pendant, previously belonged to British socialite Nina Dyer. The brooch, now dethroning a Bulgari piece once owned by Elizabeth Taylor, represents the timeless appeal of Colombian emeralds.

Industry experts point to an evolving preference for coloured gemstones among high-end buyers. Fura Gems Board Member Gaurav Gupta noted a rising interest in emeralds, rubies, and sapphires. "The coloured gemstones market is picking up,” he told AFP.

Fura Gems Chief Marketing Officer, Rupak Sen, reinforced the historical prestige of Colombian emeralds, which are often preferred over those from Zambia or Brazil. “Colombian emeralds are considered the best emeralds in the world,” he explained, positioning them alongside rubies from Myanmar and sapphires from Kashmir as premier choices in the high-end gem market.

Colombian emerald trader Luz Castaneda remarked on the unique appeal of these gemstones, describing them as symbols of prestige and energy. “It’s a stone that carries a lot of energy, transmitting a sense of health and elegance,” she shared, emphasising her personal passion for the vibrant green stone.