May Birthstone: Emerald

Emeralds can be a good investment, especially high-quality stones with rich color and minimal inclusions. However, like any gemstone investment, buying from reputable sources and considering the stone's origin, certification, and market trends is important. Investing in emeralds requires understanding the gemstone market and a willingness to hold onto the stone as its value appreciates over time.

While emeralds are beautiful, they are not as durable as other gemstones like diamonds. With a Mohs hardness rating of 7.5 to 8, they are susceptible to scratches and chipping. If you plan to wear emeralds daily, taking precautions, such as removing the jewellery during activities that could cause damage and storing the pieces separately to avoid scratches, is important.

When purchasing an emerald, look for a certification from a reputable gemological laboratory, such as the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) or the International Gemological Institute (IGI). The certificate should include details about the stone’s origin, color, clarity, cut, and any treatments it has undergone. This certification helps ensure the authenticity and quality of the emerald.

Many emeralds undergo treatments to enhance their color and clarity. The most common treatment is oiling, where natural or synthetic oil fills fractures and improves the stone's appearance. Ask the jeweller about treatments the emerald has undergone, which can affect its value and care requirements.

To verify the authenticity of an emerald, it’s advisable to have it examined by a certified gemologist. Genuine emeralds often have natural inclusions, known as "jardin," which can help distinguish them from synthetic or imitation stones. Additionally, genuine emeralds will typically come with a certification from a reputable gemological institute, confirming their authenticity. You can learn more about it on their authenticity page.

Emeralds can be resized or reset, but their delicate nature requires a skilled jeweler. The process must be done carefully to avoid damaging the stone. If you’re considering resizing or resetting emerald jewellery, it’s important to work with a jeweller who is experienced in handling this gemstone. If you're thinking about making adjustments to your emerald jewellery, consider seeking the expertise of professionals who specialize in these delicate gemstones, such as those you can find information about on a jewellery repair page like Diamovida's Jewellery Repair.

Emeralds pair beautifully with various metals, including yellow gold, white gold, platinum, and silver. The choice of metal often depends on personal preference and the overall design of the jewellery. Yellow gold enhances the warmth of the emerald, while white metals like platinum and white gold create a striking contrast that highlights the stone's vibrant green color.

To clean your emerald jewellery at home, use lukewarm water mixed with a few drops of mild dish soap. Gently scrub the stone with a soft toothbrush, avoiding harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners, as these can damage the emerald. After cleaning, rinse the jewellery with clean water and pat dry with a soft cloth. For best results, have your emerald jewellery professionally cleaned and inspected periodically.

The value of an emerald is determined by the 4 Cs: color, clarity, cut, and carat weight. The most valuable emeralds are those with a deep, vivid green color, minimal inclusions, and a well-executed cut that maximizes the stone’s brilliance. Additionally, the origin of the emerald, with stones from Colombia being particularly prized, can also impact its value.

Yes, emeralds can vary based on their geographical origin and specific characteristics. Colombian emeralds are renowned for their deep green color, while Zambian emeralds often have a slightly bluish tint. Synthetic emeralds, created in a lab, are also available and can offer a more affordable option while still providing the gemstone's beauty.