Emerald Known since ancient times and a favorite of Cleopatra, emeralds are still among the most popular and beautiful stones in the world. It is both the birthstone for May and the official gemstone of the 20th anniversary. The most beautiful emeralds today are mined in Colombia and other parts of South America. The emerald is actually a green beryl that gets its color from impurities in the stone. This has led to some controversy on exactly what constitutes a 'true' emerald with purists insisting that only stones with chromium in them are true emeralds. Although emeralds rank high on the Mohs scale for hardness, they are relatively fragile stones that are subject to cracking and breaking - which is one of the reasons that jewelers developed the emerald cut. The long, shallow shape presents far fewer fracture points and shows the emerald's fire to its best advantage. Learn more about the May birthstone Emerald buying guideLook for deep, medium tone green when you're looking for an emerald. Emeralds vary in color from pale yellow-green to nearly black. The most valuable are pure, transparent grass green - the color that gives Ireland its nickname of the Emerald Isles. Few emeralds are free of inclusions or faults, and emerald pricing accounts for that fact. In addition, nearly all emeralds sold as gemstones have been oil-finished or filled with resin to give the stone a smooth surface. If you're buying an emerald, assume that it has been treated in some way unless otherwise told. Untreated emeralds of high quality will fetch a premium price. Emerald careBecause emeralds are seldom found without fissures and surface cracks, it's common for them to have been oiled, waxed or filled with resin. Because of the likelihood of those treatments, special care is called for when cleaning and handling emeralds. Everyday cautions Avoid situations where your emerald could knock against things and be damaged. In addition, remove your emerald rings when doing dishes or immersing your hands in water as soapy solutions and hot water can damage the finish on the stone. Finally, avoid sudden temperature changes which could cause color change and cracking in your emerald. Cleaning your emerald jewelry Use warm water with a very mild detergent and a soft brush to clean your emerald jewelry. Between washing, clean emerald jewelry with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use an ultrasonic cleaner or steam cleaner on emerald jewelry, and avoid harsh chemicals. Every 2-5 years, have an experienced jeweler re-oil your emerald to keep it looking its best. Storing your emerald jewelry Store emeralds in velvet lined boxes with individual compartments or inside cotton bags in a jewelry box. Avoid storing them in the same compartments of bags as diamonds and sapphires to prevent scratches to the emeralds. Also avoid extreme temperature changes and prolonged exposure to bright light which can change the color of your emeralds. |
