Zambian Emerald
Zambian emerald characteristics, inclusions, comparison with Colombian, and market position.
origin/zambia emerald kagem african
Introduction
Zambia has become the world's second-largest emerald producer, with the
Kagem mine being the most significant operation. Zambian emeralds have
distinct characteristics from Colombian material, often offering better
clarity at competitive prices.
The Zambian emerald trade has grown significantly since the 1970s.
Major Sources
Zambian emerald production:
Kagem Mine
- Location: Lufwanyama District, Copperbelt Province
- Ownership: Gemfields (75%), Zambian government (25%)
- Production: World's single largest emerald mine
- Character: Consistent supply; various qualities
Other Operations
- Grizzly Mining (various mines)
- Artisanal mining continues
- Multiple smaller operations
Characteristics
Zambian emerald distinctive features:
Colour
- Hue: Bluish-green to green
- Tone: Medium to medium-dark
- Character: Cooler colour than Colombian
- Chromophores: Chromium and iron
Clarity
- Generally cleaner than Colombian
- Eye-clean stones more available
- Good transparency common
- Inclusions when present are different type
Zambian Emerald Inclusions
| Inclusion | Description |
|---|---|
| Actinolite needles | Amphibole needles and rods |
| Phlogopite mica | Bronze-coloured platy flakes |
| Magnetite | Opaque black crystals |
| Two-phase inclusions | Liquid + gas (no halite) |
| Blocky crystals | Various mineral crystals |
| Growth tubes | Parallel channels |
No Three-Phase
Colombian vs Zambian
Colombian
- Pure green (warmer)
- Three-phase inclusions
- More included typically
- Calcite, pyrite common
- Higher premiums
Zambian
- Bluish-green (cooler)
- Two-phase inclusions
- Often cleaner
- Actinolite, mica common
- Better value
Market Position
Zambia's place in the emerald market:
Strengths
- Consistent quality supply
- Better clarity available
- More transparent market (Gemfields auctions)
- Ethical sourcing certified
- Competitive pricing
Value Comparison
- 20-50% lower than comparable Colombian
- Gap narrowing for fine stones
- Increasing market acceptance
- Some buyers specifically seek Zambian
Treatments
Treatment status in Zambian emeralds:
- Oiling: Standard practice, as with all emeralds
- Resin filling: Some material treated
- Generally less: Cleaner rough needs less treatment
- Disclosure: Same standards as Colombian