Gemfields
said its experts "will continue to evaluate the gem before any final
decision is taken in terms of its future".
Ian Harebottle, chief executive of Gemfields, said: "This is a unique
find. The Insofu displays wonderful colour and good translucency. Its sheer
size, rich colour and fine protective biotite shell make it difficult to see
deep into the gem. However, all indications suggest that the core of the
emerald is competent and that it should yield a number of cut gems of
significant size."
The largest uncut emerald believed to have been found was in Carnaiba, Brazil
in 1974. It was an incredible 86,136-carat natural beryl crystal. The stone
was eventually valued at $1,120,080. The largest emerald crystal ever
discovered was 7,025 carats and was found in a mine in Colombia.