Colombia is the main source for fine emeralds today, with around 150 emerald mining sites known there. The most famous emerald mines are Muzo and Chivor, which were mined in the pre-Colombian times by the Incas. The economically most important emerald mine is Coscuez, where three quarters of the current Colombian emerald production comes from.

Colombian emeralds are unique from other emeralds in that they exhibit an especially brilliant green that does not contain a bluish tinge. Depending on the place of occurrence, the color of emeralds may vary.

Fine emeralds are also found in Zambia, Brazil, Zimbabwe, Madagascar, Pakistan, India, Afghanistan and Russia. Besides Columbia, Zambia, Zimbabwe and Brazil have also gained an international reputation for fine emeralds.