Demand & Channels
Global market overview and supply context.
Market Overview
Executive Summary
- ■ Highly concentrated supply: Colombia, Zambia and Brazil.
- ■ Premium anchored by Colombia; Zambia supplies stable mid-high quality.
- ■ Fastest demand growth from China & India; EU/US maisons & auctions set top-end pricing.
- ■ Pricing drivers: Colour, Clarity, Size, Origin, Treatment, Cut and Certificate.
- ■ ESG & traceability are hard requirements; Mine to Market models rising.
Global Production Reference
| Country | Mine Reference | % Fine Quality |
|---|---|---|
| Brazil | Piteiras, Capoeirina, Belmont | 10% |
| Central Asia | Swat Valley, Panjshir Valley | 17% |
| Colombia | Muzo, Coscuez | 30% |
| Ethiopia | Shakiso | 10% |
| Madagascar | Mananjary | 10% |
| Russia | Malysheva | 0.25% |
| Zimbabwe | Sandawana | 10% |
| Zambia | Kagem | 10% |
Source: Indicative industry estimates compiled from publicly available gemstone market studies and trade references.
Market Size & Growth
Upstream
The upstream rough emerald market is estimated to be valued between several hundred million and low billions of USD annually, with strong year-to-year volatility. Supply remains concentrated in a handful of producing countries, making the market sensitive to mine output, auctions, and geopolitical factors.
Retail
The global retail emerald market is estimated to be in the multiple billions of USD, driven by brand, design, and craftsmanship premiums. High-end jewellery houses capture most of the value chain, with luxury positioning transforming emeralds into both a fashion and investment product.
Data Source
Indicative market size estimates compiled from publicly available industry commentary and secondary sources, including publications and auction disclosures by Gemfields Limited, reports and market insights from GIA and Gübelin Gem Lab, and broader coloured gemstone market studies. Figures are approximate only.
Global Market
Demand & Channels
US / EU
Maisons and auction houses dominate top-end trade.
China
Rapid adoption of colored gemstones; focus on certificates & branding.
India / Middle East
Deep jewelry culture & cutting hubs (Jaipur).
Global Hubs
Hong Kong, Singapore, Dubai (trading & re-export).