"In nature's humble abode, green resides with the utmost pride."

Overview

Think diamonds top the list of pricey gemstones? Not quite! There's another gem that can be worth twice as much as a diamond of the same size and weight—emerald. This dazzling green stone has won the hearts of many. And who could resist its charm? 

The Stone of the Kings

Emeralds, part of the beryl family, are known for their striking green color, which is due to the presence of chromium and vanadium. They have a hardness rating of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale, making them durable yet delicate enough to require careful handling.

Emeralds have been valued for thousands of years, from ancient Egypt, where they symbolized rebirth, to Rome, where they were believed to have soothing properties. Emeralds were also intricately incorporated into the jewelry and regalia of Indian royalty. The rich green stones adorned everything from elaborate necklaces and rings to ornate thrones and ceremonial swords. Throughout history, emeralds have been a favorite of the elite, adorning the crowns and treasures of royalty. Today, their deep green color continues to represent luxury and timeless beauty. 

There are many different types of emeralds, each of which is named after the country of its origin. For instance, Columbian emeralds are mined in Columbia and the Brazilian variants are mined in Brazil.

Physical Properties

Hardness: Emeralds range from 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale of hardness, making them durable enough for most types of jewelry.

Color: Emeralds are primarily green, ranging from vivid green to bluish-green. The color is due to trace amounts of chromium or vanadium in their chemical composition.

Chemical Composition

Emeralds are a variety of beryl with the chemical formula: $\text{Be}_3\text{Al}_2(\text{SiO}_3)_6$

As a Birthstone

As the birthstone for May and the traditional gem for the 20th and 35th wedding anniversaries, emeralds are associated with the goddess Venus and are thought to bring good fortune, youthfulness, and wisdom to those who wear them.

Choosing Your Emerald

When selecting an emerald, consider the following:

Color: The most sought-after emeralds are a deep, even green with a slight bluish tint.

Clarity: While inclusions are common in emeralds, stones with fewer visible inclusions and a rich color are particularly valued.

Cut: Emeralds are typically cut into rectangular or square shapes with beveled corners, known as the emerald cut, which enhances the stone's color and minimizes stress during setting.

Care: Although emeralds are relatively durable, they require gentle care. Clean them with warm soapy water and a soft brush, avoiding harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners. Regularly check the settings to ensure the stone remains secure.