RARISSIME emerald on matrix - 153.20 ct – SWAT NO RESERVE PRICE - Height: 41.2 mm - Width: 35.4 mm- 30.64 g - (1)






Holds a master’s in chemistry with 25 years’ experience in minerals consulting.
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A 153.2-carat natural emerald specimen with two intense green crystals on matrix, from the Swat Valley in Pakistan.
Description from the seller
Discover this remarkable natural emerald specimen on matrix, from the famous Swat Valley in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of northern Pakistan.
This magnificent mineral specimen, weighing 153.2 carats (30.64 grams), features two superb emerald crystals of particularly intense green, naturally set in a rocky matrix with silvery-gray, white, and slightly greenish hues.
The contrast between the bright green crystals and the matrix’s more neutral tones is immediately one of this specimen’s main aesthetic attractions.
The two crystals, located in the upper part of the piece, have well-defined geometric outlines and magnificent crystal surfaces.
Their emerald-green coloring, particularly vivid under photographic lighting, immediately draws the eye and highlights their natural structure.
The matrix, meanwhile, has an irregular mineral texture, with subtle color variations and relief that emphasize the authentic character of the specimen as a whole.
Measuring 41.2 × 35.4 × 14.2 mm, this piece has a strong visual presence and a particularly harmonious natural composition.
The Swat Valley is world-renowned among gem enthusiasts for its emeralds, some of which have remarkably saturated colors.
A magnificent pairing of two natural emerald crystals on their host rock, combining crystalline beauty, aesthetic contrast, and prestigious provenance.
Technical specifications
Main mineral: Natural emerald
Mineralogical family: Beryl
Chemical formula: Be₃Al₂Si₆O₁₈
Total specimen weight: 153.2 carats (30.64 grams)
Dimensions: 41.2 × 35.4 × 14.2 mm
Country of origin: Pakistan
Province: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
Locality: Swat Valley
Type: Natural emeralds on matrix
Number of visible main crystals: 2
Color: Intense emerald green
Crystallization: Hexagonal system
Habit: Prismatic crystals with geometric outlines
Luster: Vitreous
Transparency: Variable, with visible translucent areas
Hardness: 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale
Matrix: Natural grayish to whitish rock, exact composition not analyzed
Condition: Natural mineral specimen
Treatments: No treatment
Interest: Mineral collection, natural emeralds, and crystals on matrix
Two magnificent crystals – A remarkable natural composition
One of the most fascinating features of this piece is the presence of two distinct emerald crystals, harmoniously arranged in the upper part of the matrix.
The first crystal, located slightly to the left, displays a magnificent green color, accompanied by lustrous crystal surfaces and clearly visible natural outlines.
The second crystal, located on the right, stands out for its particularly crisp geometric silhouette and deep green color.
Its structure displays superb edges and flat faces, characteristic of the natural crystallization of beryl.
Together, these two formations create a remarkable aesthetic balance.
Their modest size relative to the matrix allows us to fully appreciate their geological setting and the way they developed within the rock.
The matrix itself is an essential part of the specimen’s beauty.
Its silvery-gray hues, whitish areas, and slightly greenish zones form a natural backdrop that brings out the intensity of the crystals.
The rock’s irregular surfaces contrast beautifully with the geometry of the emeralds.
A superb natural combination in which the precision of crystal forms meets the raw textures of the host rock.
An intense emerald-green color – The signature of Swat emeralds
Emeralds from the Swat Valley are particularly prized for their color, which can range from bright green to deep green.
On this specimen, the two crystals display an intense, bright green that is particularly striking against the grayish matrix.
This characteristic color results from the presence of certain trace elements, primarily chromium and sometimes vanadium, within the crystal structure of beryl.
These elements alter the absorption of light and are responsible for the green coloring that distinguishes emerald from other varieties of beryl.
Color is one of the essential criteria in the gemological assessment of emeralds.
The most sought-after hues generally combine attractive saturation, balanced tone, and pleasing brightness.
For mineral specimens, the quality of the crystallization, the aesthetics of the association, and the presence of the matrix also play a fundamental role.
This piece stands out in particular for the contrast between the green of the crystals and the more subdued colors of their natural surroundings.
A magnificent example of the coloring that has contributed to the international reputation of Pakistani emeralds.
The Swat Valley – A legendary locality for emeralds
Located in northern Pakistan, in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, the Swat Valley is one of Asia’s most famous localities for natural emeralds.
This mountainous region lies within a particularly complex geological environment, shaped by the great tectonic forces responsible for the formation of the Himalayas and neighboring mountain ranges.
The convergence and interactions of the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates have profoundly transformed the rocks of this region.
In certain geological settings, these processes have encouraged the circulation of mineralizing fluids and the formation of precious minerals.
The Swat emerald deposits are associated in particular with zones of deformation and hydrothermal processes that enabled green beryl to crystallize.
One remarkable feature of these deposits is the presence of specific geochemical conditions required for beryllium to come into contact with the elements responsible for the green color.
This combination is uncommon in nature.
This is one of the reasons emerald is relatively rare geologically compared with many other minerals.
Today, Swat emeralds hold an important place in the world of gemstones and mineral specimens.
Owning an emerald from this valley means possessing a fragment of an exceptional geological region, renowned for its green crystals for several decades.
The history of Swat emeralds – An ancient heritage rediscovered
The history of Swat emeralds is particularly fascinating.
Archaeological and historical evidence points to an early interest in the green stones of this region, although the precise identification of all the sources exploited in antiquity remains a subject of study.
Modern emerald mining in Swat developed during the 20th century, particularly following discoveries and mining work undertaken in the 1950s.
The Mingora region, in the heart of the valley, became one of the main centers associated with this activity.
Over the decades, Pakistani emeralds gradually attracted the attention of international traders, gemologists, and collectors.
Some stones from Swat stand out for their intense color, while specimens preserved on matrix make it possible to appreciate their natural crystallization.
Mining these deposits remains technically demanding because of the geological conditions and the need to preserve the crystals during extraction.
Mineral specimens with visible crystals on their original rock are therefore of particular interest to collectors.
They make it possible to observe emerald in its natural context, before any transformation for use in jewelry.
A specimen that evokes the mining history of Pakistan, the geological richness of Swat, and the fascination emeralds have inspired for centuries.
Rarity and mineralogical interest – The beauty of an emerald preserved on matrix
Emerald belongs to the beryl family, but its formation requires specific geological conditions.
The beryllium essential to its crystal structure must come into contact with chromophore elements such as chromium or vanadium in an environment favorable to crystallization.
This geochemical combination helps explain why deposits of high-quality emeralds are relatively few worldwide.
Crystals may then be fractured, altered, or damaged over the course of their geological history and during extraction.
Specimens that preserve identifiable crystals on their natural matrix therefore have a mineralogical interest distinct from that of emeralds intended for cutting.
This piece has several particularly appealing qualities:
The presence of two clearly visible main crystals.
An intense green color.
Geometric crystal outlines.
Strong aesthetic contrast with the matrix.
A substantial overall size of more than 4 cm.
Provenance associated with one of Asia’s major emerald-producing regions.
The exact commercial rarity of this specimen depends, however, on additional criteria, including the integrity of the crystals, their transparency, and their state of preservation.
A particularly interesting piece for enthusiasts of emeralds on matrix and collectors of minerals from the world’s major gem-producing localities.
An exceptional collector’s piece
This emerald on matrix brings together many aesthetic and mineralogical qualities.
Its natural composition immediately catches the eye with its two green crystals, which seem to emerge from the silvery-gray rock.
The presence of the matrix makes it possible to appreciate not only the beauty of the emeralds, but also their formation environment.
Unlike a cut gemstone, a specimen like this preserves part of its geological context and offers a more complete view of natural crystallization.
Its compact size allows for elegant display in a mineral showcase, a specialized collection, or a group dedicated to the world’s major emerald-producing localities.
It is also a magnificent subject for macro photography, with the crystal surfaces revealing numerous details under suitable lighting.
A superb specimen combining the beauty of precious stones with the authenticity of natural mineral formations.
Practical information
The photographs were taken under macro lighting to highlight the crystals, their colors, and the details of the matrix.
The green hues and reflections may vary slightly depending on the lighting conditions and screen settings.
The weight of 153.2 carats refers to the total weight of the specimen, including the matrix, and not just the emerald crystals.
The exact composition of the matrix and the absence of any treatments have not been verified by an independent gemological analysis.
The specimen offered for sale is exactly the one shown in the photographs.
It will be carefully packed and protected to preserve the crystals and matrix during shipping.
Conclusion – A magnificent natural emerald from the Swat Valley
This exceptional natural emerald specimen on matrix, weighing 153.2 carats and measuring 41.2 × 35.4 × 14.2 mm, is a remarkable mineral specimen from the famous Swat Valley in Pakistan.
Its two intensely emerald-green crystals, their geometric outlines, and their association with a silvery-gray matrix create a particularly elegant natural composition.
The beauty of the color, the contrast of the textures, and the preservation of the crystals in their rocky setting are the piece’s main attractions.
The international reputation of Swat emeralds, together with the geological and mining history of this mountainous valley, further enhances its appeal to collectors.
A magnificent natural emerald on matrix, bringing together two bright green crystals, remarkable mineralogical aesthetics, and all the fascination of the famous Swat Valley deposits.
Terms and Conditions of Sale – MineralsOpals:
At MineralsOpals, your satisfaction is our top priority.
Every order is handled with the utmost care, from selecting the stones to final shipment.
- Shipping & delivery times:
Dispatched within a maximum of 1 to 3 business days, usually the day after the order is placed.
Shipping Monday to Friday (excluding weekends and public holidays).
Every parcel is sent via La Poste with a tracking number provided.
Careful packaging: each stone is individually protected, then placed in a secure, rigid cardboard box.
- Guarantee & customer service:
100% of shipments are guaranteed: if anything goes wrong, we always find a solution.
Shop with confidence: full refund, replacement, or a goodwill gesture in the event of a confirmed loss or problem.
If you have a question, concern, or specific request, you can contact me at any time. I’ll be happy to respond as soon as possible.
Trust & commitment
Each stone is carefully photographed to reflect its natural beauty.
You receive personalized assistance.
My goal: to offer you a reliable, personal, and transparent shopping experience.
Thank you for your support.
Feel free to browse our no-reserve auctions to discover other exceptional items, and follow us to stay informed about our new listings.
Seller's Story
Discover this remarkable natural emerald specimen on matrix, from the famous Swat Valley in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of northern Pakistan.
This magnificent mineral specimen, weighing 153.2 carats (30.64 grams), features two superb emerald crystals of particularly intense green, naturally set in a rocky matrix with silvery-gray, white, and slightly greenish hues.
The contrast between the bright green crystals and the matrix’s more neutral tones is immediately one of this specimen’s main aesthetic attractions.
The two crystals, located in the upper part of the piece, have well-defined geometric outlines and magnificent crystal surfaces.
Their emerald-green coloring, particularly vivid under photographic lighting, immediately draws the eye and highlights their natural structure.
The matrix, meanwhile, has an irregular mineral texture, with subtle color variations and relief that emphasize the authentic character of the specimen as a whole.
Measuring 41.2 × 35.4 × 14.2 mm, this piece has a strong visual presence and a particularly harmonious natural composition.
The Swat Valley is world-renowned among gem enthusiasts for its emeralds, some of which have remarkably saturated colors.
A magnificent pairing of two natural emerald crystals on their host rock, combining crystalline beauty, aesthetic contrast, and prestigious provenance.
Technical specifications
Main mineral: Natural emerald
Mineralogical family: Beryl
Chemical formula: Be₃Al₂Si₆O₁₈
Total specimen weight: 153.2 carats (30.64 grams)
Dimensions: 41.2 × 35.4 × 14.2 mm
Country of origin: Pakistan
Province: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
Locality: Swat Valley
Type: Natural emeralds on matrix
Number of visible main crystals: 2
Color: Intense emerald green
Crystallization: Hexagonal system
Habit: Prismatic crystals with geometric outlines
Luster: Vitreous
Transparency: Variable, with visible translucent areas
Hardness: 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale
Matrix: Natural grayish to whitish rock, exact composition not analyzed
Condition: Natural mineral specimen
Treatments: No treatment
Interest: Mineral collection, natural emeralds, and crystals on matrix
Two magnificent crystals – A remarkable natural composition
One of the most fascinating features of this piece is the presence of two distinct emerald crystals, harmoniously arranged in the upper part of the matrix.
The first crystal, located slightly to the left, displays a magnificent green color, accompanied by lustrous crystal surfaces and clearly visible natural outlines.
The second crystal, located on the right, stands out for its particularly crisp geometric silhouette and deep green color.
Its structure displays superb edges and flat faces, characteristic of the natural crystallization of beryl.
Together, these two formations create a remarkable aesthetic balance.
Their modest size relative to the matrix allows us to fully appreciate their geological setting and the way they developed within the rock.
The matrix itself is an essential part of the specimen’s beauty.
Its silvery-gray hues, whitish areas, and slightly greenish zones form a natural backdrop that brings out the intensity of the crystals.
The rock’s irregular surfaces contrast beautifully with the geometry of the emeralds.
A superb natural combination in which the precision of crystal forms meets the raw textures of the host rock.
An intense emerald-green color – The signature of Swat emeralds
Emeralds from the Swat Valley are particularly prized for their color, which can range from bright green to deep green.
On this specimen, the two crystals display an intense, bright green that is particularly striking against the grayish matrix.
This characteristic color results from the presence of certain trace elements, primarily chromium and sometimes vanadium, within the crystal structure of beryl.
These elements alter the absorption of light and are responsible for the green coloring that distinguishes emerald from other varieties of beryl.
Color is one of the essential criteria in the gemological assessment of emeralds.
The most sought-after hues generally combine attractive saturation, balanced tone, and pleasing brightness.
For mineral specimens, the quality of the crystallization, the aesthetics of the association, and the presence of the matrix also play a fundamental role.
This piece stands out in particular for the contrast between the green of the crystals and the more subdued colors of their natural surroundings.
A magnificent example of the coloring that has contributed to the international reputation of Pakistani emeralds.
The Swat Valley – A legendary locality for emeralds
Located in northern Pakistan, in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, the Swat Valley is one of Asia’s most famous localities for natural emeralds.
This mountainous region lies within a particularly complex geological environment, shaped by the great tectonic forces responsible for the formation of the Himalayas and neighboring mountain ranges.
The convergence and interactions of the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates have profoundly transformed the rocks of this region.
In certain geological settings, these processes have encouraged the circulation of mineralizing fluids and the formation of precious minerals.
The Swat emerald deposits are associated in particular with zones of deformation and hydrothermal processes that enabled green beryl to crystallize.
One remarkable feature of these deposits is the presence of specific geochemical conditions required for beryllium to come into contact with the elements responsible for the green color.
This combination is uncommon in nature.
This is one of the reasons emerald is relatively rare geologically compared with many other minerals.
Today, Swat emeralds hold an important place in the world of gemstones and mineral specimens.
Owning an emerald from this valley means possessing a fragment of an exceptional geological region, renowned for its green crystals for several decades.
The history of Swat emeralds – An ancient heritage rediscovered
The history of Swat emeralds is particularly fascinating.
Archaeological and historical evidence points to an early interest in the green stones of this region, although the precise identification of all the sources exploited in antiquity remains a subject of study.
Modern emerald mining in Swat developed during the 20th century, particularly following discoveries and mining work undertaken in the 1950s.
The Mingora region, in the heart of the valley, became one of the main centers associated with this activity.
Over the decades, Pakistani emeralds gradually attracted the attention of international traders, gemologists, and collectors.
Some stones from Swat stand out for their intense color, while specimens preserved on matrix make it possible to appreciate their natural crystallization.
Mining these deposits remains technically demanding because of the geological conditions and the need to preserve the crystals during extraction.
Mineral specimens with visible crystals on their original rock are therefore of particular interest to collectors.
They make it possible to observe emerald in its natural context, before any transformation for use in jewelry.
A specimen that evokes the mining history of Pakistan, the geological richness of Swat, and the fascination emeralds have inspired for centuries.
Rarity and mineralogical interest – The beauty of an emerald preserved on matrix
Emerald belongs to the beryl family, but its formation requires specific geological conditions.
The beryllium essential to its crystal structure must come into contact with chromophore elements such as chromium or vanadium in an environment favorable to crystallization.
This geochemical combination helps explain why deposits of high-quality emeralds are relatively few worldwide.
Crystals may then be fractured, altered, or damaged over the course of their geological history and during extraction.
Specimens that preserve identifiable crystals on their natural matrix therefore have a mineralogical interest distinct from that of emeralds intended for cutting.
This piece has several particularly appealing qualities:
The presence of two clearly visible main crystals.
An intense green color.
Geometric crystal outlines.
Strong aesthetic contrast with the matrix.
A substantial overall size of more than 4 cm.
Provenance associated with one of Asia’s major emerald-producing regions.
The exact commercial rarity of this specimen depends, however, on additional criteria, including the integrity of the crystals, their transparency, and their state of preservation.
A particularly interesting piece for enthusiasts of emeralds on matrix and collectors of minerals from the world’s major gem-producing localities.
An exceptional collector’s piece
This emerald on matrix brings together many aesthetic and mineralogical qualities.
Its natural composition immediately catches the eye with its two green crystals, which seem to emerge from the silvery-gray rock.
The presence of the matrix makes it possible to appreciate not only the beauty of the emeralds, but also their formation environment.
Unlike a cut gemstone, a specimen like this preserves part of its geological context and offers a more complete view of natural crystallization.
Its compact size allows for elegant display in a mineral showcase, a specialized collection, or a group dedicated to the world’s major emerald-producing localities.
It is also a magnificent subject for macro photography, with the crystal surfaces revealing numerous details under suitable lighting.
A superb specimen combining the beauty of precious stones with the authenticity of natural mineral formations.
Practical information
The photographs were taken under macro lighting to highlight the crystals, their colors, and the details of the matrix.
The green hues and reflections may vary slightly depending on the lighting conditions and screen settings.
The weight of 153.2 carats refers to the total weight of the specimen, including the matrix, and not just the emerald crystals.
The exact composition of the matrix and the absence of any treatments have not been verified by an independent gemological analysis.
The specimen offered for sale is exactly the one shown in the photographs.
It will be carefully packed and protected to preserve the crystals and matrix during shipping.
Conclusion – A magnificent natural emerald from the Swat Valley
This exceptional natural emerald specimen on matrix, weighing 153.2 carats and measuring 41.2 × 35.4 × 14.2 mm, is a remarkable mineral specimen from the famous Swat Valley in Pakistan.
Its two intensely emerald-green crystals, their geometric outlines, and their association with a silvery-gray matrix create a particularly elegant natural composition.
The beauty of the color, the contrast of the textures, and the preservation of the crystals in their rocky setting are the piece’s main attractions.
The international reputation of Swat emeralds, together with the geological and mining history of this mountainous valley, further enhances its appeal to collectors.
A magnificent natural emerald on matrix, bringing together two bright green crystals, remarkable mineralogical aesthetics, and all the fascination of the famous Swat Valley deposits.
Terms and Conditions of Sale – MineralsOpals:
At MineralsOpals, your satisfaction is our top priority.
Every order is handled with the utmost care, from selecting the stones to final shipment.
- Shipping & delivery times:
Dispatched within a maximum of 1 to 3 business days, usually the day after the order is placed.
Shipping Monday to Friday (excluding weekends and public holidays).
Every parcel is sent via La Poste with a tracking number provided.
Careful packaging: each stone is individually protected, then placed in a secure, rigid cardboard box.
- Guarantee & customer service:
100% of shipments are guaranteed: if anything goes wrong, we always find a solution.
Shop with confidence: full refund, replacement, or a goodwill gesture in the event of a confirmed loss or problem.
If you have a question, concern, or specific request, you can contact me at any time. I’ll be happy to respond as soon as possible.
Trust & commitment
Each stone is carefully photographed to reflect its natural beauty.
You receive personalized assistance.
My goal: to offer you a reliable, personal, and transparent shopping experience.
Thank you for your support.
Feel free to browse our no-reserve auctions to discover other exceptional items, and follow us to stay informed about our new listings.
Seller's Story
Details
Disclaimer
It is believed that certain gemstones and minerals have beneficial health and spiritual properties. However, using or wearing gemstones or minerals does not mean that you can treat, cure or prevent any disease. Please consult your health care professional for information on health care issues and do not stop any medications or courses of treatment, without first consulting your health care professional. The use of gemstones or minerals as a wellness therapy is one of personal choice. While stones or crystals have been used historically to relieve or prevent symptoms, the objects sold on our website offer no guarantee of results. Therefore, Catawiki cannot guarantee or be held liable for the effectiveness of these objects sold herein.
It is believed that certain gemstones and minerals have beneficial health and spiritual properties. However, using or wearing gemstones or minerals does not mean that you can treat, cure or prevent any disease. Please consult your health care professional for information on health care issues and do not stop any medications or courses of treatment, without first consulting your health care professional. The use of gemstones or minerals as a wellness therapy is one of personal choice. While stones or crystals have been used historically to relieve or prevent symptoms, the objects sold on our website offer no guarantee of results. Therefore, Catawiki cannot guarantee or be held liable for the effectiveness of these objects sold herein.
