Whether you were born in May or simply adore exquisite jewellery, emeralds are a must-have in your collection. Known for their deep green colour and rarity, emeralds have captivated people for centuries. They are a popular choice for engagement rings and other special occasion jewellery and are often paired with diamonds or other gemstones to create a stunning contrast.
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The word "emerald" comes from the Greek word "smaragdus," which means green. These gemstones occur in a range of green hues and tones, with the most desirable colours being blueish-green to pure green with no visible colour variations throughout the stone.
Emeralds are a type of beryl mineral, with other gemstones in the beryl family including aquamarine, morganite, and heliodor. They are primarily mined in Colombia, Brazil, and Zambia, with smaller Emerald deposits found in other parts of the world, including Australia! The quality of emeralds varies greatly depending on their origin and Colombian emeralds are generally considered the most valuable due to their deep green colour and high clarity.
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Known for their exceptional beauty, Emeralds are also notorious for their inclusions and fractures caused by the natural processes that form them. As a result, it is very rare to find a completely flawless emerald. Like all gemstones these imperfections can affect their clarity and worth. However, some inclusions can actually give the gem more character and uniqueness without compromising its beauty or durability.
When it comes to emeralds, the cut is crucial in bringing out their natural beauty and minimising the risk of damage. Due to their brittleness and inclusions, the most traditional and popular cut is an "emerald" cut, characterised by its rectangular or square shape with truncated corners and a large table. Other popular cuts for emeralds include oval, round, pear, and marquise shapes.
Whether you are searching for a birthstone keepsake or simply want to add an elegant and mesmerising touch to your jewellery collection, emeralds are a timeless choice. With their deep green colour and rarity, they are sure to capture the attention of anyone who sees them.
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