Seeing Green: All About Emeralds

Ever wondered about Emeralds?

Let us tell you something more

About:

Emeralds are colored stones composed of the mineral beryl. They range from medium green to dark green. Emeralds are considered the official birthstone for the month of May.

History:

The word Emerald is derived from the Greek word “smaragdos“, as well as the Old French word “esmeralde“; both mean “green gemstone”. Scholars have discovered even older references to the gem in ancient Sanskrit. “Maarakata” translates to “the green of growing things”

Found:

Most Emeralds are found in mines with hydrothermal (hot water or steam) dposits. Emeralds are also found in eluvial and alluvial deposits. Emeralds of the finest quality are found today in Muzo or Chivor mines of Columbia, and can also be found on the continents of Asia and Africa.

Properties:

Beryl in the form of Emerald has a hardness of 7.5 to 8.0 on the mohs scale of hardness. If they are highly included, emeralds can range from “Good” to “Poor” in their toughness (resistance to breakage) and can chip easily. However, breakage and chipping can be prevents through appropriate jewellery treatments, settings and proper care.

Keep following our blog and we will talk about care and cleaning of Emerald Jewellery…