Emerald Jewelry - May's Beloved Birthstone

Emeralds are mined in many parts of the world but some of the finest and most prized come from Columbia. Colombian emeralds have a deep green color without any blue tint. Typically the deepest green gems are the most coveted. And on occasion a rare Trapiche emerald, with six rays radiating from the center, is found. The rays are actually inclusions that have formed a hexagonal shape.

Emeralds are a form of the mineral beryl which is durable and rare making emeralds a favorite to use in jewelry.

Like a diamond, an emerald is also graded using four C's. For emeralds the last C refers to crystal instead of carat. Color is the most important of the criteria, and crystal runs a close second. Pure green gemstones with high transparency is important.

The most common way to cut emeralds is in what's known as an "Emerald Cut", which is a long rectangular shape with large flat surfaces. Emeralds are also cut into cabochons and used as beads.

Typically the flaws in an emerald are visible with the naked eye, and if a jewelers loupe is needed, the stone is considered clear.

There are many lab created emeralds and other stones that are sold incorrectly as emeralds so make sure to deal with a reputable and knowledgeable seller when purchasing.

Two Magnificent Fluted Emerald Bead and Diamond Necklaces Giclee Print
18 in. x 24 in.
Buy at AllPosters.com

There have been advances in the production of synthetic emeralds to the point that many have the qualities of genuine emeralds. These are made by growing emerald overgrowth on a green beryl stone. Two of the most famous and pioneering synthetic stone producers are Chatham and Pierre Gilson. Unfortunately both of these companies are no longer in business but there are other manufacturers that have taken up the cause.

The US Federal Trade Commission has regulations on what can be called a natural or genuine stone, and as such synthetic emeralds are called "Created" emeralds. Make sure to research the type of stone you are purchasing so as not to pay too much. Synthetic stones will be much less costly than natural gemstones.