Purchasing emeralds can be difficult for the beginner because there is such a huge price difference between low quality and high quality emeralds. Where the emerald was mined has a big effect on emerald prices as well. When looking at comparable emeralds Colombians will be the most expensive followed by Brazilian and Zambian. Emeralds are mined in many localities but Colombia, Brazil, and Zambia are the top producers and will likely be what most encounter for sale. Price differences between countries of origin is because each one has a distinct type of emerald color. Colombia produces some of the best pure green hues with just a slight amount of blue. Brazilian emeralds are similar to Colombian but often have a brown or gray secondary color while Zambian emeralds tend to have too much of a blue component to their color.

Low-end emeralds that either have poor clarity or color can be purchased for a few dollars per carat. Light does not pass through these emeralds because they are opaque. They may also have such pale green color that many gemologists would not call them emerald but green beryl instead.

High quality Colombian emerald prices start around $1000 to $3000 per carat so you should expect to pay about $4000 for a high quality 2 carat emerald. This should buy you an emerald with very good color, moderate to low levels of treatment, and good clarity. Almost all emeralds in this price range will be treated with oil, resin, or polymer. This enhancement is accepted worldwide and has been practiced for centuries. Emeralds priced above $3000 per carat often have low to no treatment or are larger in carat weight.