Emerald Elegance

What should you know when buying an emerald? Emeralds are best known as one of the precious three gemstones: they are revered alongside rubies and sapphires. Sought after for their soothing green hue, emeralds are universally appealing. Read more below to learn about May's gorgeous birthstone!

Historically thought to bring peace, protection, and love to the wearer, emeralds have been beloved throughout history. Said to be a favorite stone of both Cleopatra and the Incas, emeralds have a rich tradition of delighting wearers with their unparalleled green hue. Pliny the Elder of ancient Rome was thought to have said that his lapidaries “have no better method of restoring their eyes than by looking at the emerald, its soft, green color comforting and removing their weariness and lassitude.”

In the modern world, Emeralds can be found in Colombia, Brazil, and Africa. Emeralds from Colombia’s mines are thought to be the finest quality, and all other emeralds are held to the high standards of these gems. The emeralds with the richest tones of pure green come from the Muzo mining site in Colombia. 

Emeralds are sought after for their color. Key characteristics of emeralds are the inclusions that give them depth: emeralds are primarily included, and these inclusions, known as jardin, give each stone a veritable garden of fascinating characteristics. These inclusions do not detract from the value of the stone: an included emerald with a rich green hue is more desirable than a pale, flawless stone. 

Emeralds are a relatively hard gemstone. However, they are 7.5-8 on the Mohs Hardness Scale, and so can be scratched if not cared for properly. Emeralds shouldn’t be cleaned by any method other than a soft brush and warm, soapy water. Cleaning solutions and other cleaning methods can damage these precious stones. 

Emerald is the birthstone of May. A perfect homage to the greenery that bursts forth in during the springtime, this stone is as precious as it is lovely. Contact me today to begin your own project featuring emeralds!