Skip to next element

CANVASES, CARATS AND CURIOSITIES

Emerald Terminology, Explained

With an unmistakable lush green color, May's birthstone has long been one of the most coveted of all colored gemstones. Adored since ancient times, the emerald was thought to possess magical powers that warded off evil spirits and cure diseases. Today, the emerald still holds power, but of an entirely different sort – the power of desire. This dazzling green gemstones evokes a sense of elegant tranquility as the gem of the spring season.

 

 

 

An outstanding 6.02-carat emerald exhibits the perfect "Old Mine" green hue in this classic and captivating ring

 

 
An outstanding 6.02-carat emerald exhibits the perfect "Old Mine" green hue in this classic and captivating ring
 

 

With the gemstone market ever expanding, the choices for emeralds seem endless. These popular precious gemstones can be found today in a range of varying colors, sizes, and qualities. For the first-time buyer, this variety of stones and the accompanying terminology can seem daunting and difficult to decipher. When searching for the perfect emerald, it's important to understand the makeup of your stone and its background, as various treatments and artificial enhancements are not always noticeable to the unpracticed eye. Oil/no oil - what does it all mean, anyway? Let's take a closer look at the most common terms you might encounter when shopping for your next emerald.

 

 

 

Certified by the American Gemological Laboratories as untreated, the stunning duo total 3.12 carats and claim an entirely natural beauty

 
Certified by the American Gemological Laboratories as untreated, the stunning duo total 3.12 carats and claim an entirely natural beauty
 

 

 

The eight remarkably rare Colombian emeralds display a stunning deep green hue that attest to their important origin

 
The eight remarkably rare Colombian emeralds display a stunning deep green hue that attest to their important origin
 

 

Apart from the chemical makeup of each unique stone, the geographical origin of emeralds should also be considered. For instance, Colombia has been the prime location for the mining of the finest quality emeralds in the world. These stones possess a quality like no other as they are regarded as the finest in the world identifiable by their pure, dark green color and quality, seen in this Colombian emerald and diamond statement necklace.

 

 

Exciting imaginations since antiquity, the emerald’s association with the lushest landscapes and rebirth maintains its association with the renewal of the Spring season. Today, the demand for the emerald has skyrocketed as consumers desire emeralds that speak to the most pure color and origin. By understanding what makes up a fine gemstone. Visit our collection of vintage and antique emerald jewelry.

 

 

 

 

RECENTLY POSTED ARTICLES

WANT MORE BLOGS AND ARTICLES LIKE THIS?

Sign up below to be the first to know about new acquisitions, exhibits, blogs and more.

back to top
back to top