Emerald: The Lush Green May Birthstone of Royalty
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- Angara Colombian Emerald Pendant with Diamond Halo in 14K White Gold
- Peora 14K White Gold Emerald Stud Earrings 1.50 Carats
- Ross-Simons Emerald Three-Stone Ring with Diamond Accents
- Gem Stone King Green Emerald Tennis Bracelet in Sterling Silver
- Dazzlingrock Collection Pear Emerald & Diamond Drop Earrings in 10K Gold
- FANCIME 14K Solid Gold Natural Emerald Solitaire Ring
- Effy Collection Emerald and Diamond Cluster Pendant in 14K Gold
- Natural Emerald Eternity Band in 14K Yellow Gold
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Cleopatra didn't just love emeralds—she claimed every emerald mine in Egypt as her personal property.
Emerald, the magnificent green gem of royalty, has captivated humanity for over 4,000 years. As May's birthstone, this variety of beryl displays the most coveted green in the gem world—a color so distinctive that "emerald green" has become its own standard. Queen Elizabeth II's emerald collection, the Rockefeller Emerald, and countless crown jewels feature these stunning stones. When selecting emerald jewelry like a Colombian emerald pendant with diamond halo or classic emerald stud earrings, focus on color first—the finest specimens display vivid, saturated green. Unlike many gems, emeralds are expected to have inclusions (called "jardin," French for garden), so eye-clean stones command exceptional premiums.
Why is emerald such a treasured May birthstone?
Emerald derives its enchanting green from trace amounts of chromium and sometimes vanadium within the beryl crystal structure. This green has symbolized renewal, growth, and rebirth across cultures for millennia—making emerald the perfect birthstone for May, when spring reaches full bloom in the Northern Hemisphere. Ancient Romans dedicated emerald to Venus, goddess of love and beauty, believing the stone could reveal the truth or falsehood of lovers' oaths.
For those born in May, emerald represents wisdom, truth, intuition, and foresight. The gem was also thought to possess magical powers—placing it under the tongue allegedly allowed one to see the future, while wearing it supposedly made one an eloquent speaker. Today, emerald symbolizes loyalty, abundance, success, and enduring love. The gem traditionally celebrates the 20th and 35th wedding anniversaries, making it a meaningful choice for milestone celebrations. Take our birthstone quiz to discover if emerald's energy resonates with your personality.
What is the history of emerald?
The earliest recorded emerald mining dates to 330 BC in Egypt, though geologists estimate the oldest emeralds are close to 3 billion years old. The Egyptian mines, later known as "Cleopatra's Mines," produced gems that adorned the pharaohs for centuries. Cleopatra's passion for emeralds was legendary—she used them lavishly in her royal jewelry and gifted emeralds engraved with her likeness to visiting dignitaries.
The emerald trade transformed in the 16th century when Spanish explorers encountered emeralds in South America that far surpassed Egyptian stones in quality. Colombian emeralds from the Muzo, Chivor, and Coscuez mines quickly became the world's most prized, a reputation they maintain today. Colombia produces over 70% of the world's emeralds and sets the standard by which all others are judged. Colombian stones are renowned for their exceptional clarity and unmistakable green created by a perfect combination of blue and green hues. Compare emerald's lush green with the deep blue of September's sapphire in our complete birthstone guide.
How to select the most stunning emerald jewelry?
Color is the most important factor when evaluating emeralds—it typically accounts for 50-70% of a stone's value. The finest emeralds display a vivid, highly saturated green with a slight blue undertone. Colombian emeralds, particularly from Muzo, are prized for achieving this ideal color naturally. Stones that are too yellow or too blue are less valuable, as are those that appear too light or too dark.
Unlike diamonds, emeralds are not expected to be flawless. Nearly all emeralds contain inclusions—internal features affectionately called "jardin" because they can resemble a tiny garden. These inclusions actually help identify natural emeralds and are accepted as part of the stone's character. However, inclusions should not be so prominent that they affect the stone's transparency or durability. Eye-clean emeralds (those without visible inclusions to the naked eye) are rare and command significant premiums.
Most emeralds undergo treatment to enhance their appearance, typically oil or resin filling to minimize the visibility of inclusions. This is an accepted practice, but the degree of treatment affects value—untreated or minimally treated stones are worth significantly more. Always request disclosure of any treatments and certification from a reputable laboratory for significant purchases.
What are key considerations when selecting emerald jewelry?
Quality Factors:
- Color: Vivid, saturated medium-green with slight blue undertones is ideal
- Clarity: Some inclusions expected; eye-clean stones are rare and valuable
- Cut: Should maximize color and minimize visible inclusions; emerald cut is classic
- Carat: Fine large emeralds (over 1 carat) are exceptionally rare
- Origin: Colombian emeralds command premiums; Zambian stones offer excellent value
- Treatment: Untreated or minimally treated stones are worth significantly more
Metal Pairings:
- Yellow gold enhances emerald's warm tones and is the traditional pairing
- White gold or platinum creates elegant contrast, emphasizing the green
- Rose gold offers a modern, romantic look with complementary warmth
Setting Considerations:
- Protective settings like bezels help shield emerald's relatively soft edges
- The classic "emerald cut" was developed specifically to protect this stone
- Avoid settings that put pressure on corners or thin edges
- Consider emerald doublets or triplets for affordable everyday pieces
Care Instructions: Emeralds require special care due to their inclusions and typical oil treatments. Clean only with warm, soapy water and a soft brush—never use ultrasonic or steam cleaners, which can remove treatments and potentially damage the stone. Avoid exposure to heat, harsh chemicals, and sudden temperature changes (including airplane cabins). Remove emerald jewelry before applying perfume, hairspray, or cleaning products. Store separately from harder gems to prevent scratching. Have a jeweler inspect settings regularly for loose stones or damage.
At 7.5-8 on the Mohs hardness scale, emerald is moderately durable but not as tough as ruby or sapphire. Handle emerald rings with care, holding them by the band rather than the stone. For daily wear, consider emerald in earrings or pendant necklaces rather than rings, or choose rings with protective settings for occasional wear.
Whether celebrating a May birthday with an emerald three-stone ring representing past, present, and future, commemorating a milestone anniversary with a stunning emerald tennis bracelet, or simply embracing the renewal this stone represents, emerald jewelry makes an unforgettable statement. For brides, an emerald eternity band symbolizes never-ending love. From Cleopatra to modern royalty, emerald has adorned those who appreciate nature's most captivating green.
Angara Colombian Emerald Pendant with Diamond Halo in 14K White Gold
Angara with Diamond Halo in 14K White Gold
This exquisite pendant features a genuine Colombian emerald surrounded by a sparkling diamond halo.
This exquisite pendant features a genuine Colombian emerald surrounded by a sparkling diamond halo. The vivid green emerald displays the rich saturation that Colombian stones are famous for. Set in 14K white gold with 18-inch chain.
"The Colombian origin shows in the exceptional color. The diamond halo makes it truly stunning.
Peora 14K White Gold Emerald Stud Earrings 1.50 Carats
Peora 14K White Gold 1 50 Carats
These classic stud earrings feature genuine round-cut emeralds totaling 1.
These classic stud earrings feature genuine round-cut emeralds totaling 1.50 carats. Set in solid 14K white gold with secure push-back closures, these versatile earrings work beautifully for both everyday elegance and special occasions.
"Beautiful green color with great clarity. Perfect for May birthdays or any emerald lover.
Ross-Simons Emerald Three-Stone Ring with Diamond Accents
Ross Simons with Diamond Accents
This meaningful ring features three natural emeralds representing past, present, and future, accented by sparkling diamonds.
This meaningful ring features three natural emeralds representing past, present, and future, accented by sparkling diamonds. Set in sterling silver with rhodium plating for lasting shine. Perfect as an anniversary or birthday gift.
"The three-stone design is so meaningful and the emeralds have beautiful color.
Gem Stone King Green Emerald Tennis Bracelet in Sterling Silver
Gem Stone King Green in Sterling Silver
This stunning tennis bracelet features a continuous line of genuine emeralds set in sterling silver.
This stunning tennis bracelet features a continuous line of genuine emeralds set in sterling silver. The rich green stones catch light beautifully, creating an elegant statement piece. Secure box clasp with safety latch.
"The emeralds have consistent color and the bracelet has nice weight. Beautiful for special occasions.
Dazzlingrock Collection Pear Emerald & Diamond Drop Earrings in 10K Gold
Dazzlingrock Collection Pear Emerald Diamond Drop Earrings in 10K Gold
These elegant drop earrings feature pear-shaped emeralds accented with round white diamonds.
These elegant drop earrings feature pear-shaped emeralds accented with round white diamonds. The combination of green emerald and sparkling diamond creates timeless sophistication. Available in yellow or white gold.
"The pear shape is elegant and the diamonds add beautiful sparkle alongside the emeralds.
FANCIME 14K Solid Gold Natural Emerald Solitaire Ring
FANCIME 14K Solid Gold Natural
This classic solitaire ring features a genuine emerald in an elegant four-prong setting.
This classic solitaire ring features a genuine emerald in an elegant four-prong setting. The timeless design lets the emerald's natural beauty shine. Crafted in 14K yellow gold for warmth that complements the green stone.
"Classic design that showcases the emerald beautifully. The yellow gold setting is perfect.
Effy Collection Emerald and Diamond Cluster Pendant in 14K Gold
Effy Collection Emerald and Diamond Cluster Pendant in 14K Gold
This luxurious pendant features multiple emeralds surrounded by sparkling diamonds in an eye-catching cluster design.
This luxurious pendant features multiple emeralds surrounded by sparkling diamonds in an eye-catching cluster design. The combination creates maximum impact and brilliance. Includes an 18-inch gold chain.
"The cluster design is stunning and catches light from every angle. Truly a statement piece.
Natural Emerald Eternity Band in 14K Yellow Gold
Natural in 14K Yellow Gold
This beautiful eternity band features a continuous circle of channel-set natural emeralds in 14K yellow gold.
This beautiful eternity band features a continuous circle of channel-set natural emeralds in 14K yellow gold. The seamless design symbolizes never-ending love. Perfect as a wedding band or anniversary ring for May brides.
"Perfect for a May bride or anniversary. The emeralds have beautiful consistent color.
Review of Our Favorite 3
Angara with Diamond Halo in 14K White Gold
This exquisite pendant features a genuine Colombian emerald surrounded by a sparkling diamond halo.
Peora 14K White Gold 1 50 Carats
These classic stud earrings feature genuine round-cut emeralds totaling 1.
Ross Simons with Diamond Accents
This meaningful ring features three natural emeralds representing past, present, and future, accented by sparkling diamonds.
About the Author
Alfreda Borror
Alfreda Borror is an avid admirer of the finer things in life, and has an unending appreciation for luxury. Her considerable skills lie in design and fashion, having spent years working as a costume designer for both theatre and film.
