Farmers in North Carolina must have thought they were in the Oz when they dug up a 65-carat emerald about 50 miles northwest of Charlotte. Her name is Caroline Emperor.
This rare gem may be the largest emerald found in North America, however its worth depends on the clarity, color and cut, said Douglas Hucker, the CEO of American Gem Trade Association.
To give some perspective, gemologist C.R. “Cap” Beesley compares the stone to an emerald brooch worn by Catherine the Great of Russia, which was sold for $1.65 million.
One can only hope that the jewel-finding farmers will do something outrageously kind with their discovery and donate it to Jewels for Charity, a nonprofit organization that supports programs for disadvantaged children and underprivileged youth.
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Photo by unforth via Flickr.