Looking to add some statement pieces to your jewelry collection? Emeralds are a timeless classic that exude glamour and sophistication. As a fine art jewelry designer, they are a favorite of mine. This gemstone has a rich history and has been coveted by royalty and Hollywood stars alike. I have personally worked with emeralds countless times. Today, I wanted to share my ultimate guide to emerald jewelry, in case you’re considering this stone for your next heirloom piece. From selecting the perfect emerald to designing a custom piece and caring for your precious jewelry, I’m going to cover everything you need to know about emerald jewelry. If you are ready to design your own custom piece, connect with me here.

Why Emeralds? Emeralds have a regal history and outstanding legacy

There are so many reasons to love Emeralds. Emeralds are some of the most renowned gemstones in history, known for their alluring green hue and rare beauty. Mined from Colombia to Brazil, emeralds have been cherished since ancient times. Emeralds have been featured in the treasured collections of kings, emperors, and other rulers. In Egyptian culture, emeralds were associated with fertility and rebirth and were often buried along with the dead. The gemstones were also highly prized by Cleopatra and were widely rumored to be her favorite gemstone. She even went as far as to claim ownership of all emerald mines in Egypt, to which Rome had to pay a tax to access the gem. Talk about a history!

The popularity of emeralds has only continued to grow over time. The green color of this intensely-hued gemstone is also linked to Venus, the goddess of love and beauty. This makes them a popular choice for engagement rings and other romantic jewelry. Today, Emeralds are largely considered a luxurious gemstone that represents sophistication, serenity, and loyalty. This stone continues to be loved and adored by those fortunate enough to wear them.

How to Select the Perfect Emerald for Your Style

When choosing an emerald, the four C’s are crucial: color, clarity, cut, and carat weight. In terms of color, the ideal choice is a rich green hue. Ideally, it won’t be too dark nor too light (although ultimately, it matters what YOU are uniquely drawn to). Clarity, on the other hand, refers to the number and size of inclusions within the stone, as well as surface blemishes. While a completely flawless emerald is rare, I often encourage my client’s to look for a stone with as few inclusions as possible. The cut of an emerald can vary, but typically a classic emerald cut or oval cut will showcase the gemstone’s beauty. Finally, the carat weight is a personal preference, but it goes without saying that larger emeralds are rarer and more expensive.

Enhance Your Look with Custom Emerald Jewelry

As an experienced fine art jewelry designer, I know that selecting the perfect emerald is just the beginning of creating a masterpiece. Converting that emerald into a one-of-a-kind jewelry piece requires the expertise of a designer who can creatively transform your dreams into reality.

When considering designing your custom jewelry piece, I always love to remind my client’s that their choices are limitless. You can feature emeralds in statement necklaces, elegant earrings, or as a stunning right hand ring. Whatever you desire, my role as a custom jewelry designer is to create a stunning piece that reflects your individual personality, style, and story. I personally love a piece with a story.

I would love to show you the endless possibilities for incorporating an emerald into your jewelry piece. From choosing an emerald with the perfect cut and clarity to selecting the perfect metal to complement the stunning green hue, we can create a truly unique piece, just for you. Learn more about my bespoke jewelry design process here.

Tips on Caring for Your Emerald Jewelry

Emeralds are a softer gemstone compared to diamonds or sapphires, making them more prone to scratches and chips. To keep your emerald jewelry looking its best, avoid wearing it during high-impact activities. I also recommend you store it separately from other jewelry. Clean emeralds with warm water and mild soap, being careful not to soak the stone for too long. On top of that, you will want to consider getting your emerald jewelry professionally inspected every few years. This is the best way to ensure your gemstone is secure and in good condition.

Ultimately, emerald jewelry is a timeless classic that is perfect for both special occasions and everyday wear. By following these tips on selecting the perfect emerald, hiring a fine art jewelry designer to help you design custom emerald jewelry, and caring for your precious pieces, you can enjoy the beauty of emerald jewelry for years to come. Personally, it’s one of my favorite stones. As a custom jewelry designer, I encourage you to explore the world of emeralds and discover how this exquisite gemstone can amplify your personal style. When you are ready to talk about your own bespoke design, learn more about working with me here.