15 JUNE 2023 | H.SAMUEL EDITOR
Whether it’s an emerald ring or necklace you’re obsessing over, the emerald stone lets you express your style while embodying the beauty and symbolism they harness. Let’s take a closer look at this precious gem and see how you can bring the exquisite emerald into your own jewellery collection.
Where are emeralds found?
The largest producer of emeralds is Colombia, and emeralds are commonly mined in many other countries like Brazil and Zambia.
Where are emeralds found?
The largest producer of emeralds is Colombia, and emeralds are commonly mined in many other countries like Brazil and Zambia.
What colour are emeralds?
A fun fact we love about the traditional green emerald colour is that varies in hue and saturation depending on where the stone originates from:
- Colombia: Warmer green colour
- Zambia: Cooler, more blue-green hue
- Brazil: Lighter saturation
- Afghanistan: Light to medium saturation in a vibrant green colour
- Zimbabwe: Medium, saturated green with a pale hue
Are emeralds expensive?
When we think of the most expensive of the precious stones, our minds often go straight to diamonds. So, you might be surprised to know that emeralds are more expensive than diamonds because they’re so rare. Depending on the 4C’s (their colour, clarity, cut and carat weight) emeralds typically vary from £161-£7000+ per carat. See for yourself why emerald jewellery is a gorgeous addition to your collection and can be more desirable than diamond jewellery.
Is emerald a stone or a diamond?
Emeralds aren’t diamonds, they’re a precious stone from the beryl family of gemstones.
What are the world’s most famous emeralds?
Through the ages, emeralds continue to spark controversy and awe. But why are emeralds so rare? And which emerald is the most valuable?
Are emeralds expensive?
When we think of the most expensive of the precious stones, our minds often go straight to diamonds. So, you might be surprised to know that emeralds are more expensive than diamonds because they’re so rare. Depending on the 4C’s (their colour, clarity, cut and carat weight) emeralds typically vary from £161-£7000+ per carat. See for yourself why emerald jewellery is a gorgeous addition to your collection and can be more desirable than diamond jewellery.
Is emerald a stone or a diamond?
Emeralds aren’t diamonds, they’re a precious stone from the beryl family of gemstones.
What are the world’s most famous emeralds?
Through the ages, emeralds continue to spark controversy and awe. But why are emeralds so rare? And which emerald is the most valuable?
The Bahia Emerald
Estimated at a cool $400 million dollars, the Bahia Emerald is the king of emeralds and takes the trophy as the biggest, most expensive gemstone discovered EVER. Discovered in Brazil’s Bahia state in 2001, this colossal gemstone weighs 381kg and features several individual emerald crystals. And because of its eye-watering size and rarity, the one-of-a-kind find has been drama central for years over who the rightful owner is. Since its discovery, the beautiful boulder has been mostly locked away whilst legal battles continue, spending time at the LA county sheriff’s department and even underwater in a vault during Hurricane Katrina.
Mogul Mughal Emerald
The Mogul Mughal Emerald is a fabulous gemstone shrouded by intrigue and remains one of the largest emeralds in the world. The Mogul Mughal has a mesmerising green hue with an outrageous clarity that we rarely see in emeralds. Its name was coined from the Mughal dynasty, as it was once treasured by Indian emperors for its enchanting beauty. With floral carvings on one side, and Islamic prayer engraved on the other: the Mogul Mughal Emerald is synonymous with opulence and symbolises power and prestige.
5 of the world's most famous emerald stones:
The Stotesbury Emerald
Last sold at auction for an eye-watering one million dollars, this gorgeous emerald stone is named after one of its renowned owners Eva Stotesbury (she was a big deal in 20th-century high society - girl power). Originally mined in 1908, Cartier created a necklace from the giant emerald for another high society gal - Evalyn Walsh McLean. It was later fashioned into a striking ring. The emerald is impressive in size and its rich green colour demands your attention. The magnificent stone has a pretty fascinating history, passing through the hands of royalty and collectors throughout its 100+ years. The undeniable lure of the Stotesbury Emerald has made it a symbol of opulence and sophistication since forever.
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The Crown of the Andes
Allow us to introduce you to the most extra crown of all time. Dripping with over 400 untreated emeralds, the crown of the Andes is as drop-dead gorgeous as it gets. According to the rumours, the crown was made in 1590 to adorn an image of the Virgin Mary in the cathedral of Popayán, Colombia but experts have actually dated the crown to around 1660. Back then it was common practice to gift boujie jewels and gowns to Virgin Mary statues to honour her.
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The Angoulême Emerald Tiara
She’s an icon. She’s a legend. And she is the moment. The Angoulême Emerald tiara boasts 40 varying-sized emeralds that are hugged by a subtle 1,031 diamonds. This timeless tiara was designed and created in 1819 for Marie-Thérèse, Duchess of Angoulême (the eldest child of King Louis XVI and icon Marie Antoinette, btw). The regal tiara now sits prettily at the Louvre.
What is the oldest emerald in the world?
Though they don’t have a name, the oldest dated emeralds which were discovered in South Africa are around 2.9 billion years old, can you believe it? But the first known emeralds used in jewellery were by the Egyptians in 1500 BC. Cleopatra famously had a soft spot for emeralds and who can blame her? They’re gorgeous.
Emerald meaning and emerald symbolism
For thousands of years, the emerald has been coveted as amulets or talismans as they’ve been believed to possess protective, powerful properties. Ancient cultures believed that emeralds enhanced the intuition, wisdom and balance of the wearer. And maybe they were on to something, the gentle aura of the emerald totally brings positive vibes which is why it remains so symbolic.
Emerald birthstone: the month of May
The iconic emerald is the birthstone for May. So, an emerald gift of some kind is the perfect gift for your Taurus and Gemini besties.
55th Wedding Anniversary
The emerald is the gemstone that marks 55 years of marriage. Gifting a timeless piece of emerald jewellery like an emerald necklace or ring to a loved one celebrating the occasion is the perfect way to mark such an inspirational achievement. Over half a century of loving each other? Relationship Goals.
Can emeralds be worn every day?
Emeralds may look delicate, but they’re durable enough for you to wear as a daily jewellery staple. So, if you were thinking about whether you could wear an emerald engagement ring for the rest of your life, you absolutely can (and you absolutely should). Emerald hardness is rated at around 8.5/10, just a little under the 10 rating of diamonds. So not only will the emerald stand the test of time in your collection, but its ethereal charm will keep you in awe forever. So, what are you waiting for? Jump into the other-worldly range of emerald jewellery and find your new statement piece today.