You might be surprised at the plethora of emerald stores in El Centro — particularly along Calle del Ladrinal. The emerald jewelry you will find in Cartagena range greatly in quality and size, but the prices are for the most part unreasonably high. If you’re serious about buying, expect to bargain for about 50% of the price quoted, which might explain why some stores have “50% off” slogans permanently painted on their windows. Also, don’t be fooled by the fancy interior of a place. Some of the cloudiest emeralds are there. Hired men will try to lure you in to their stores for you to take a look. The best plea for attention, however, is “Museo de la Esmeralda,” which you will find is just a clever ploy for customers and not a museum at all. It is a jewelry store like all its competitors — or maybe the browsing there will make you feel like you’re in a museum. Finally, Cartagena is just a convenient city to promote their national gem, many of the ones you’re looking at are from the more mountainous areas around Bogotá. If you are selective, inquisitive, and keen enough, you could still find that gorgeous piece you are seeking.