Australian Curlew Emerald - Worth it?

[Danna]

Hey,

I'm an Australian gal looking for her engagement ring stone. I'm really keen on getting an Australian, natural stone.

I've been mainly looking at Parti Sapphires, but have just come across this gorgeous Curlew Mined Australian Emerald:

Emerald 3.01ct Western Australia Curlew Emerald Mine Certified | eBay

Find many great new & used options and get the best deals for Emerald 3.01ct Western Australia Curlew Emerald Mine Certified at the best online prices at eBay!

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It is the only cut and loose stone I have found of the type. Good amount of carats, a colour I absolutely love! It's $6000 AUD, and before considering purchasing it, I'd like the opinion of some experts! Is the cut okay? Would getting this piece re-oiled a problem? Is this a desirable stone aesthetically?

These emeralds are supposed to be extremely rare, since all the stone found in the mine were usually split or cracked.

I've asked for certification and video also, so won't be making any moves until I get that. The stone can be returned and comes from within the country, which makes me feel more comfortable.

 

[Bron357]

Hi, fellow Aussie here.
It’s a very beautiful and interesting gem, but not what I’d call an “emerald”. It’s is toning more towards aquamarine. Emerald and Aquamarine are both Beryl, it’s the colour that designates one name or the other.
An emerald (Beryl) is unfortunately not a good choice for an engagement / frequently worn ring.
Emeralds are brittle and their inclusions make them prone to “cleaving” ie breaking apart. A sharp accidental “clunk” can be all it takes. They are also “soft” so facet wear over time will also occur. And yes, you need certification regarding treatments, if any. Oiling is common. Introduced “residues” are not as acceptable. Affects price, the more treatment the lower the price.
A sapphire will make for for a better engagement ring. sapphires are more robust. Australia is famous for its parti colours sapphires.
Have a look / contact Doug Menadue from Bespoke Gems here in Sydney. He is a fabulous gem cutter and has a good selection of sapphires and even rough he hasn’t cut as yet.
And if buying on eBay always use PayPal or a credit card through the eBay system. You will have no recourse if you send money via a bank transfer or bank deposit. The vendor may offer a cheaper price to use a bank transfer but you don’t have any protection if nothing turns up or it isn’t as described.

 

[GliderPoss]

I agree with Bron, I’m not sure it’s worth it. Doesn’t obviously look like an emerald and doesn’t come with a GAA certificate either so would hard pass. Plenty of beautiful Aussie sapphires out there so perhaps a green one instead?

 

[icy_jade]

A sapphire will make for for a better engagement ring. sapphires are more robust.

That. Emeralds are really only for occasional wear and need to be babied. Sapphires would make for longer lasting engagement rings.

 

[Ionysis]

It looks very heavily included, even for an emerald.

 

[meely]

As other posters have said emerald is not suitable for everyday wear. I admittedly know nothing about them but as you want something Australian, aren’t there some Australian sapphires? @Bron357 do you know anything about them?

 

[lovedogs]

I 2nd the recommendation to contact Doug menaude. He has an entire section of his website dedicated to aussie sapphires. And hes incredibly nice.

Bespoke Gems - Australian Sapphires

Bespoke Gems specialises in precision cut gemstones of the finest quality in a wide range of classic, modern and unique designs. Each gem is personally faceted in Sydney by one of Australia's premier gemcutter, Doug Menadue. A wide range of beautiful Australian Sapphires in stock. Discover the...

www.bespoke-gems.com

 

[GliderPoss]

Another recommendation is https://cushlawhiting.com.au/ a Melbourne based jeweller who does a lot of stunning Aussie sapphire rings.