In this video interview, emerald cutter Ricardo Jiménez shares his journey, craft, and perspective on shaping Colombia’s most iconic gemstone.

How did you become a lapidary?

I had the opportunity to take a lapidary course in 1973 with a Spanish teacher and a Dutch instructor who came to give a few classes. I followed the course, and the Spanish professor told me: “Keep going with this work—I see a lot of potential in you.” I liked it, fell in love with the craft, and that’s why I’m still doing it today.

What drew you to cutting emeralds?

Honestly, everything. Seeing what rough looks like, having the ability to transform it, and then witnessing the result—that’s truly special. Someone once told me, “You’ve cut many stones, and you’re privileged because you give them their shape. You’re the first person in the world to see them that way—even if later the stone ends up in a jewel, you’re the one who formed it.” That’s something to be proud of.

What are the particularities of cutting emeralds?

At the rough stage, you analyze color and inclusions. You study the stone to understand how to cut it—removing as many inclusions as possible to improve clarity, while also maximizing color. Balancing purity and color is key to making the stone look lively. That’s the core of the analysis.

What are the main challenges?

You need to examine the stone very carefully during cutting and be aware that an internal fracture or fissure can open and cause the stone to “blow.” If that happens, damage can be significant. Some inclusions are acceptable; others must be removed because they can’t be tolerated in the stone.

What is the “ideal” cut for an emerald?

For me, the stone itself speaks. I observe it closely and take the time to understand it—as if it were talking to me. I might picture one shape, but as I work, I realize how it will reveal its beauty best: emerald cut, oval, pear, marquise, or heart. In the end, the stone guides me, and I cut it to bring out all its potential.

What’s the most beautiful emerald you’ve cut?

I’ve been fortunate to cut very exclusive stones. One stands out: a heart-shaped emerald of about 15 carats with perfectly crystalline purity. I think it’s one of the most beautiful stones I’ve ever cut—truly priceless.

Are some stones more complicated to cut?

I’m always very careful—whether a stone is exceptional, average, or lower quality. Every stone is a challenge; some are more complex than others. Sometimes the analysis takes half an hour or an hour. Other times, I need more: I’ll study it, set it aside until the next day, and return to it again. The evaluation can take a day or two to determine how to magnify its beauty. That’s the real complexity of working with emeralds.

What about new cutting technologies?

There are excellent machines—ultra-faceting systems, Israeli and Japanese machines. I’ve worked with them, but I’ve adapted to the system I use now because it works well for me. With some ultra-faceting machines, you make one movement per facet—so a 70-facet stone means 70 movements. With my system, I can cut 4 or 8 facets at the same time, which saves time. I tested those machines once and needed a day and a half for a stone; with my setup, it takes me half a day. For time efficiency, I continue with my current system—though the newer machines are beautiful.

Non-conventional cuts

An emerald doesn’t always have to follow a traditional cut; it depends on quality. I’ve seen amazing unconventional cuts, but they’re not always appropriate because preserving color and weight is the top priority. Some cuts risk losing both. It’s similar to automated processes used for semi-precious stones: emerald cutting requires meticulous handwork, shaping facet by facet. Angles must be constantly adjusted to optimize the stone—something only artisans can achieve.

How does shape affect price?

In emerald cutting, the traditional emerald cut remains the most recognized. Most stones are still cut square or rectangular because those shapes help maintain value. For example, a fine square emerald cut might be valued around 10 million pesos per carat, whereas a pear or oval of the same quality can bring a lower price. That’s why square or rectangular emerald cuts are the most sought-after on the market.

What makes Colombian emeralds unique?

Their beauty, crystal, and color. They’re considered the best in the world. Zambia and Afghanistan also produce very beautiful stones—I’ve worked with them and they’re excellent too. But the reputation of Colombian emeralds is unmatched, and the stones are exceptional.

Inclusions during cutting

Often, I can remove inclusions. Many are created when the stone is extracted from the mine using dynamite; the pressure can cause them. Some can’t be removed, others can, and the oiling process can improve the appearance of certain inclusions.

Your favorite Colombian mine?

Muzo, Chivor, Coscuez—I see stones from all of them. The material I especially enjoy working with is from Chivor for its crystal and rough quality. That said, I work with all origins, and magnificent stones come from every mine.