All About Emeralds - May's Birthstone

Stephen Alan's Jewellers - The Jewellery Blog

Emeralds have captivated people for centuries with their mesmerizing green hue and timeless beauty.

In this blog post, we take a look into the rich history of emeralds, explore what makes them green, and give you some essential tips for caring for these precious gemstones.

Whether you're an enthusiastic collector or just thinking of buying emeralds for the first time, this guide is a great place to start.

A History Of Emeralds

The history of emeralds is as rich and vibrant as the gemstones themselves. Dating back thousands of years, emeralds have fascinated and captivated civilizations across the globe with their mesmerizing green hue and mystical allure.

The ancient Egyptians believed that emeralds symbolized eternal youth and used them in burial tombs to accompany the deceased into the afterlife. Cleopatra, the legendary Egyptian queen, was renowned for her love of emeralds and adorned herself with these gemstones to showcase her wealth and power.

The Ancient Greeks associated emeralds with the goddess Venus, the symbol of love and beauty, and believed that wearing emeralds would grant the wearer foresight and the ability to predict the future. The Romans, too, held emeralds in high regard and mined them extensively in Egypt and later in what is now modern-day Colombia.

During the Spanish conquest of South America in the 16th century, Spanish explorers encountered the rich emerald mines of present-day Colombia, including the famous Muzo and Chivor mines. The discovery of these abundant emerald deposits sparked a surge in demand for emeralds in Europe, where they became a symbol of wealth, luxury, and prestige among the nobility and royalty.

Throughout history, emeralds have adorned the crowns, tiaras, and jewellery of royalty and aristocrats, including Queen Elizabeth II of England, who famously wore the Vladimir Tiara, adorned with emeralds, on her wedding day.

In more recent times, emeralds have continued to captivate jewellery enthusiasts and collectors around the world. Today, Colombia remains the primary source of the world's finest emeralds, renowned for their exceptional colour, clarity, and brilliance. Other significant emerald-producing countries include Zambia, Brazil, and Afghanistan.

The history of emeralds is a testament to their enduring allure and timeless beauty. From ancient civilizations to modern-day jewellery connoisseurs, emeralds continue to fascinate and inspire with their lush green hue and mystical charm.

What Makes Emeralds Green?

The lush green hue of emeralds has intrigued and enchanted people for centuries, but what exactly gives these gemstones their distinctive colour?

The answer lies in the unique chemistry and geological formation of emeralds, which sets them apart from other gemstones.

Emeralds belong to the beryl mineral family, which also includes gemstones such as aquamarine and morganite. What sets emeralds apart is the presence of trace elements within the crystal structure, particularly chromium, vanadium, and iron. It is the interaction of these elements with the mineral beryl that gives emeralds their vibrant green colour.

Chromium is the primary chromophore responsible for the green coloration of emeralds. Even in trace amounts, chromium imparts a rich green hue to the gemstone. However, the exact shade of green can vary depending on the concentration of chromium and other trace elements present. For example, higher levels of iron can produce a bluish-green colour, while vanadium can contribute to a more yellowish-green hue.

The colour of emeralds is also influenced by natural inclusions within the crystal structure, known as jardin. These internal fractures and imperfections are characteristic of emeralds and can affect the way light interacts with the gemstone, resulting in a unique play of colour and brilliance.

Interestingly, the geological conditions under which emeralds form also play a crucial role in determining their colour. Emeralds are typically found in metamorphic rock formations where intense pressure and heat cause the beryl to crystallize and trap trace elements within its structure. The presence of specific geological conditions, such as the right temperature, pressure, and chemical composition of the surrounding rock, can influence the colour and clarity of emeralds.

In conclusion, the vibrant green colour of emeralds is a result of the intricate interplay between trace elements such as chromium, vanadium, and iron, as well as the geological conditions under which these gemstones form. It is this unique combination of factors that gives emeralds their unparalleled beauty and allure, making them one of the most sought-after gemstones in the world.

Caring For Emeralds

Caring for emeralds is essential to preserve their beauty and ensure their longevity. While emeralds are prized for their stunning green hue and timeless allure, they are also relatively fragile gemstones that require gentle handling and proper maintenance to prevent damage and maintain their brilliance.

One of the most important aspects of caring for emeralds is protecting them from harsh chemicals and abrasive materials. Emeralds are sensitive to acids and solvents commonly found in household cleaners, so it's essential to remove any emerald jewellery before using cleaning products or engaging in activities that may expose the gemstone to chemicals. Additionally, avoid exposing emeralds to extreme temperatures or sudden changes in temperature, as this can cause thermal shock and lead to cracking or fracturing.

When cleaning emeralds, it's best to use mild soap and lukewarm water. Gently scrub the gemstone with a soft-bristled brush or cloth to remove any dirt or debris, taking care not to apply too much pressure. Avoid using ultrasonic cleaners or steam cleaners, as the intense heat and vibrations can damage the emerald and loosen any inclusions within the gemstone.

Storage is also crucial for maintaining the beauty of emeralds. Store emerald jewellery separately from other gemstones to prevent scratching and damage. Consider storing emeralds in a soft pouch or jewellery box lined with fabric to protect them from dust and abrasion.

Regular maintenance and inspection by a professional jeweller are also recommended to ensure the integrity of emerald jewellery. A jeweller can examine the gemstone for any signs of damage or wear, such as chips, scratches, or loose settings, and provide necessary repairs or adjustments to prevent further damage.

Finally, it's essential to handle emerald jewellery with care to prevent accidental damage. Avoid wearing emerald jewellery during activities that may expose the gemstone to impact or abrasion, such as sports or heavy labour. Remove emerald jewellery before swimming or engaging in water activities, as exposure to chlorine and saltwater can damage the gemstone over time.

By following these tips and guidelines for caring for emeralds, you can ensure that your precious gemstones retain their beauty and brilliance for generations to come.

Buy Emerald Jewellery in Leighton Buzzard

If you're looking to buy high quality emerald jewellery in Leighton Buzzard, visit Stephen Alan's Jewellers, one of the areas leading retail jewellers and jewellery designers.