A gorgeous, vibrant gemstone, known and revered all over the world for it’s lush green color. Emerald belongs to the mineral family Beryl, and it’s rich green color comes from the trace presence of Chromium in it’s crystal structure. Emeralds are often highly included (those little bits of Mother Nature that form inside the storm), and even though they have a ranking of 7.5-8 on the MOHS scale of hardness, they are fragile in nature due to those inclusions and internal fractures.

Often, emeralds are graded for clarity simply based on if the naked eye can see the inclusions!

Even with their infamous internal flaws, Emeralds are a respected and treasured gemstone; Cleopatra herself was known to love and collect Emeralds. Many ancient Emeralds were actually mined in Egypt; today, Columbian Emeralds are highly sought after, though mines in Zambia and Afghanistan also produce stunning Emerald gems.

How about a little history lesson? Ever heard of the Chalk Emerald?

The Chalk Emerald is known as one of the world’s most exquisite Emeralds, mined around the Muzo region of Columbia and weighing an incredible 37.8 carats. It’s deep, clear green color was (and is) highly prized; it was said to belong to a Maharani in India, and was set in platinum and gold by Harry Winston. The piece was donated to the Smithsonian and is on display in the Gem Gallery at the National Museum of Natural History!

*Image from the National Museum of Natural History*

Another piece of history that lives on through the stunning Emerald gemstone is the Imperial Emerald of Grand Duchess Vladimir. It is an extraordinary 75.61ct jewel owned by the Romanovs. While it was originally a gift from Tsar Alexander II, the gem was smuggled out during the Russian Revolution. It’s Russian roots trace back to the 1800’s, and it was among a variety of Emeralds and various gems smuggled out of Russia and eventually sold. This Emerald in particular was sold to Cartier; it was then recut and sold to the prominent John D. Rockefeller Jr.

*The Imperial Emerald of Grand Duschess Vladimir*

A symbol throughout history of rebirth, protection, healing, and fertility, Emeralds are revered and respected in many, many cultures. We feel lucky to have a stunning collection of Emeralds. If you are ever curious of the nature, color, and lore of Emerald gems, stop by the Studio - we’re always happy to guide you through selecting the perfect Emerald for your collection.

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