Emerald Birthstones: The secret power of a green gemstone

Posted on May 1, 2013 in Birthstones,

This stunning green gem gets its name, from the ancient Greek word “smaragdos,” meaning “green stone,” and helps to celebrate those born in May as well as 20th and 35th wedding anniversaries. Its lush green hue has soothed souls and excited imaginations since ancient times, and in 2013 emerald green is the designated “Color of the Year”.

24.72 carat emerald pendant.

Emerald is the bluish green to green variety of beryl, a mineral that also includes aquamarine. Mined for thousands of years, this gemstone has adorned the elite of ancient civilizations and have been credited with magical powers. This gemstone was thought to be a protection against evil spells and a cure for diseases such as cholera and malaria. Wearing an emerald was believed to reveal the truth or falseness of a lover’s oath as well as make one an eloquent speaker.

6.92 carat emerald ring.

Emerald has many special qualities, they are most of all about color. Subtle variations in color make significant differences in value. Another important factor in determining an emerald’s value is the location from which it is mined. Countries like Colombia, Brazil, Zimbabwe and Zambia supply the majority of the world’s emeralds.

Emeralds typically contain inclusions that are visible to the unaided eye. Because of this, trade professionals and some consumers understand and accept the presence of inclusions in emeralds. Emerald inclusions are often described as looking mossy or garden-like, and are sometimes called “jardin,” which is French for garden.

Van Cleef & Arpels “Fruit Salad” bracelet with emerald beads, sapphire and ruby leaves with marquise diamonds.

Emerald is a durable gem with a hardness of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale, making it great for everyday wear. Although ultrasonic cleaning and steam cleaning are not safe options for emerald jewelry, you can clean them with room temperature soapy water. In order to preserve these unique green gems, we recommend cleaning gently, avoiding any vigorous scrubbing. Use a toothbrush to gently remove dust that has collected behind the stone. Emeralds with inclusions should be treated with proper care and be protected from blows.

16-strand emerald necklace.

For all the emerald lovers out there, share your favorite emerald looks!