Emerald: The May Birthstone

Emerald Jewelry

Were you or a loved one born in May?  If so, there is no better reason to wear Emerald Jewelry.  Well…there is the pretty good reason that emerald is a stunning stone with beautiful green colors. There is a reason why it has been a treasured gemstone for thousands of years.  Emeralds have captivated us since the moment they were discovered.  In this post, we will discuss all things emerald. That means its physical properties,  range of color, and how to care for them.  Hopefully, after reading this you will have a good idea about how to go about having a piece of Emerald Jewelry made.

What Is An Emerald?

An emerald is a precious gemstone that belongs to the beryl family. It is known for its vibrant green color, which is caused by trace amounts of chromium and sometimes vanadium. Emeralds are typically found in countries such as Colombia, Zambia, Brazil, and Zimbabwe. They are highly valued for their rarity, beauty, and association with luxury and wealth.

The hardness of emeralds is relatively low compared to other gemstones, which makes them more prone to scratches and damage. Therefore, it is important to handle them with care and avoid exposing them to harsh chemicals or extreme temperatures. To clean an emerald, it is recommended to use a soft cloth and mild soap, avoiding any abrasive materials or harsh cleaning agents.

In addition to their aesthetic appeal, emeralds have been associated with various symbolic meanings and healing properties throughout history. They are believed to promote love, loyalty, and harmony, as well as enhance intuition and spiritual growth. Many people also wear emeralds as birthstones, as they are associated with the month of May.

emerald mine

History Of Emeralds

Emeralds were discovered thousands of years ago. The first known emerald mines were in ancient Egypt, dating back to around 330 BC. These mines were located near the Red Sea, in an area known as Cleopatra’s Mines. The Egyptians prized emeralds for their vibrant green color and believed they symbolized fertility and rebirth. Over time, emeralds were also found in other parts of the world, such as Colombia, Zambia, and Brazil. Today, emeralds continue to be highly valued gemstones, cherished for their beauty and rarity.

Emerald Range of Color

Emeralds display a range of colors, primarily varying shades of green. The most desirable and valuable emeralds exhibit a deep, vibrant green color. However, emeralds can also occur in lighter shades of green, ranging from pale green to a more yellowish-green hue. It is important to note that the color of an emerald can be influenced by various factors, including the presence of other minerals and the amount of chromium and vanadium present in the gemstone. Overall, the range of color displayed by emeralds offers a beautiful and diverse selection for those who appreciate the captivating allure of this gemstone.

Emerald Jewelry

 

Emerald Physical Properties

Emerald is a gemstone known for its stunning green color. It is a variety of the mineral beryl and has a hardness of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale. This makes it a relatively durable stone, suitable for everyday wear. Emeralds are typically found in hexagonal crystal formations and have a vitreous luster. They are prized for their transparency and clarity, with the finest specimens being almost completely free of inclusions.

The color of emeralds can vary from light green to deep green, with the most valuable stones exhibiting a rich, vibrant hue. Emeralds are often cut into various shapes, such as oval, round, and emerald-cut, to showcase their beauty. In addition to their physical properties, emeralds are also associated with various metaphysical properties, such as promoting love, harmony, and balance. Whether you’re a gemstone enthusiast or simply appreciate the beauty of emeralds, their physical properties make them a fascinating and valuable addition to any collection.

Natural vs Lab Grown Emeralds

Emeralds are one of the most sought-after gemstones in the world. They are known for their stunning green color and their association with luxury and wealth. However, when it comes to emeralds, there is a debate between natural and lab grown stones.

Natural emeralds are formed deep within the earth’s crust over millions of years. They are created through a combination of heat and pressure, resulting in their unique color and characteristics. These gemstones are rare and valuable, making them highly desirable to collectors and jewelry enthusiasts.

On the other hand, lab grown emeralds are created in a controlled environment using advanced technology. They have the same chemical composition as natural emeralds, but they are grown in a fraction of the time. This means that lab grown emeralds are more affordable and accessible to a wider range of consumers.

Lab vs natural

Beliefs About Emerald Jewelry

Emerald jewelry has long been associated with beauty and elegance. Many people believe that wearing emerald jewelry can bring good fortune and enhance one’s well-being. The vibrant green color of emeralds is often associated with nature and renewal, making them a popular choice for those seeking a connection to the earth. Additionally, emerald jewelry is believed to have healing properties and can help promote emotional balance and harmony. Whether it’s a stunning emerald ring, necklace, or pair of earrings, wearing emerald jewelry is a way to not only enhance your personal style but also embrace the positive energy and symbolism that these precious gemstones hold.

Why Emerald Jewelry Should Be A Necessity

Emerald jewelry should be a necessity for women due to its timeless beauty and rich symbolism. The vibrant green color of emeralds represents growth, renewal, and harmony, making it a perfect choice for women who value these qualities. Additionally, emeralds are known for their durability and rarity, making them a valuable investment that can be passed down through generations. Whether worn as a statement piece or as an everyday accessory, emerald jewelry adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to any outfit. With its captivating allure and meaningful symbolism, emerald jewelry is a must-have for every woman’s collection.

Famous Emeralds From the Past & Present

Throughout history, there have been several emeralds that have gained fame and recognition for their beauty and historical significance. One such famous emerald is the “Chalk Emerald,” which weighs an impressive 37.82 carats and is known for its vibrant green color. Another notable emerald is the “Mogul Emerald,” which dates back to the 17th century and is believed to have originated from the Mughal Empire. Lastly, the “Duke of Devonshire Emerald” is a remarkable emerald that is part of the collection at the Natural History Museum in London. These emeralds continue to captivate and inspire with their rich history and exquisite beauty.

When it comes to famous contemporary emeralds, there are a few that stand out. One notable example is the Bahia Emerald, which weighs a staggering 840 pounds and is valued at around $400 million.  The Mogul Emerald is also a legendary stone that weighs approximately 217.80 carats and is believed to have once belonged to the Mughal dynasty. These emeralds have captivated the world with their beauty and history.

The Mogul Emerald
The Mogul Emerald has a rich and fascinating history, having been owned by several prominent figures throughout the centuries.

How To Care For Emerald Jewelry

Emerald jewelry is not only beautiful but also valuable, making it important to care for it properly. To keep your emerald jewelry looking its best, follow these simple steps. First, avoid exposing your emerald jewelry to harsh chemicals or extreme temperatures. This includes household cleaners, chlorine, and hot water. Second, store your emerald jewelry in a soft pouch or lined jewelry box to prevent scratches and damage. Lastly, clean your emerald jewelry regularly using a soft cloth and mild soap. By following these care tips, you can ensure that your emerald jewelry remains stunning for years to come.

What do Emeralds Cost?

Emeralds are precious gemstones that can vary greatly in cost depending on their quality and characteristics. The price of an emerald is determined by factors such as its color, clarity, cut, and carat weight. Generally, emeralds with a vivid green color and minimal inclusions are considered the most valuable. However, it is important to note that the price of emeralds can also be influenced by market demand and supply.

To get the most for your money’s worth when purchasing an emerald, there are a few key considerations to keep in mind. First, it is recommended to buy from reputable and trusted sources, such as established jewelers or gemstone dealers. This ensures that you are getting a genuine and high-quality emerald.  It also makes sure you are getting what you paid for. Unfortunately, there are shady sellers who will try and pass of a lab emerald as a natural one.

Second, carefully examine the emerald’s color and clarity. Look for a vivid green hue with minimal visible inclusions. Inclusions are natural imperfections within the gemstone and can affect its overall beauty and value. Additionally, consider the emerald’s cut, as a well-cut stone will enhance its brilliance and sparkle.  Remember that good clarity and cut will command a premium over poorly cut stones with lesser clarity.

Last, compare prices from different sellers and educate yourself about the current market prices for emeralds. This will help you make an informed decision and ensure that you are getting a fair price for the quality of the emerald.  In general, avoid the chain stores in a fancy part of town or ones that advertise on TV.  You stone will include a markup due to that additional overhead.

Let Us Create Your Emerald Jewelry

Custom jewelry made to order is all we do for our customers. So let us create a beautiful piece of custom Jewelry for you or that special someone. Why buy a piece jewelry that 1000’s can have when you can have a custom jewelry creation made just for you?  And many times, Emerald Jewelry purchased from the retail stores can cost more than something comparable made by us.  Also, we will let you choose from ANY emerald available on the market at that time.  At the big big box chain stores, you have to choose from what they have on hand. And if you want an emerald other that the plain green, you are probably out of luck. So..no trapiche emeralds if that is what you want!

You can view our portfolio of custom engagement rings or custom pendants to look for ideas.  Or you can contact us with your own idea.. You know what they (we) say.  Once you go custom, you never go back.  To the mall!

 

Emerald: The May Birthstone

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