What is the estimated percentage of fashioned emeralds that contain filled fractures?

The estimation that 90% or more of fashioned emeralds contain filled fractures is based on practices in the gemstone industry, particularly regarding the treatment of emeralds. Emeralds are known for having natural inclusions and fractures, which can affect their clarity and overall value. To enhance their appearance and marketability, many emeralds undergo a treatment process where these fractures are filled with substances such as oils or resins.

This filling process is thus quite common in the trade, and it is rarely acknowledged directly, leading to the high percentage often associated with fashioned emeralds. As a result, the majority of emeralds available in the market today likely have some form of fracture filling, making the estimate of 90% a reasonable reflection of industry norms. The overwhelming prevalence of this treatment highlights the importance of disclosure and examination within the context of colored stone evaluation. Understanding this statistic is crucial for both gemologists and consumers to assess the quality and authenticity of emeralds accurately.