The Emeralds

Our colleagues in Bogota arranged for us to go to an Emerald dealer in Bogota. What a mistake, what an experience.

The company driver drove us there - a small house about ten minutes away in the pouring Bogota rain. For security, we had to stand in between two doors that led to the house--the second door could not open until the first door was closed -- so no guerrilla could storm in to the house and rob the Emerald lab.

There's no way to describe this visit...........an American Emerald expert living in Bogota. He wore a white coat and I felt like I was in a science lab-- he reminded me of "Jim" in taxi and Back to the Future. Originally from Upstate NY, we met his Colombian mother (who was about 90 years old). He said is Uncle was the former Chancellor of NYC schools. Didn't know whether to believe him or not (Percy????)

He started by explaining the clarity, brilliance and "blemishes" of emeralds.....he said we'd naturally be attracted to the most precious stones, as the difference was obvious. He showed us about 10 emeralds. The "poorest quality" was $250............it was then that I knew I was in trouble. help, let me out. I don't have $250 to plunk down on a stone (without gold chain btw).

Next up was a medium stone--clear but no blemishes. He proceeded to show us stones for $400, $600, $2400, $400......yikes!!!!

So we delicately walked around the showroom until I got up the courage to say, "these are out of my price range, can you suggest some of the least expensive stones"? He ushered me to the $250+ pieces and I had to say, "sorry" --out of my price range. They had costume jewelry there fashioned after traditional, indigenous Colombian ancestors for $20....Out of guilt for not buying the expensive stuff, I bought a costume jewelry necklace set.

Oh how I wish I had some emeralds........Clear, beautiful, brilliant emeralds. But I don't. Oh well.