What you have to know about Emerald Rings

The mineral beryl occasionally contains traces of chromium which gives it a nice green colour and the resulting mineral when it is deep green is called emerald, if it is light green/grey gems will be called green beryls. In the US the definition emerald also includes beryl with traces of vanadium while in Europe it does not. A good emerald will be very green and above all have a good degree of transparency. Most emeralds are treated to improve their colour and transparency and often oils are used to improve their clarity. Any reputable jeweller should disclose whether the piece of emerald has been treated or not. Completely untreated emerald with a naturally smooth surface (which means with hardly any fissures that require treatment) are quite rare and for this reason very expensive. Emerald, although relatively rare, can be found in many countries in all continents.

There have been several attempts to create synthetic emeralds using beryl and providing the right laboratory conditions to allow emerald to develop. Again you should be told by your jeweller if the emerald is synthetic. It is more likely to be sold green beryl disguised as emerald, this is something to beware as green beryl should be a lot cheaper than real emerald.

Emeralds have a cut called after them, it is a square or rectangular step cut with tapered corners. This cut is supposed to enhance the gem's natural colour. Emeralds are the birthstone for those born in May (and often Taureans if you follow the Zodiac birthstone chart) and it could be an idea when buying a present to someone born in that month. An emerald birthstone is supposed to signify loyalty and friendship. Emerald is also the gift for 55th wedding anniversaries. Emerald rings are also a popular choice for engagement rings given their bright colour, there is also a choice of vintage engagement ring if she does not mind wearing a second hand ring.

Emeralds look particularly good with gold and platinum and you will find that most rings are in gold, silver can look good too but it is not hard enough to support large emerald gems, that is the reason why you will find it more often with smaller gems.

Emerald rings require some care and should be polished regularly, the problem that wearing a ring with a gemstone is that it can get damaged or cracked quite easily. Ideally an emerald ring should not be worn when doing any type of work or handling chemicals. It should be stored in a dark place away from moisture and humidity.