And there's a good reason why emeralds have been favored by royalty, connoisseurs, and jewelry enthusiasts for so many years – their unique, vivid green color can simply not be replicated. However, if this is your first time looking at emerald gemstones necklaces, all the factors involved may be confusing. Luckily, this article will explain everything that you need to know!
Why Emerald Is Worth the Investment
One of the most valuable gemstones is known as emerald; others being diamond, ruby and sapphire. It is a stone that is designated as the birthstone for May and used as an anniversary gift, but what makes it unique is its beautiful color that varies between mint green and forest green.
In contrast to diamond, the color of the emerald comes before its clarity when evaluating its quality; in other words, any small characteristic inside the stone that could be found, usually known as "jardin", is not considered as a fault at all.
Understanding Emerald Color
Color is the primary attribute when selecting emerald jewelry. What should be noted is the following:
Hue – emeralds that have the most value have the purest color and contain little, if any, undertones of blue or yellow hues.
Tone – generally, medium to medium-dark tones are the most preferable; however, in case the stone is too light it may seem washed out, whereas too dark emerald can appear black.
Saturation – the more saturated and vivid is the green color of the stone, the more value it has.
In different areas emeralds can possess different traits – in particular, Colombian emeralds are well-known for their vivid bluish-green hue, while Zambian stones can have more bluish tone.
Cut: Why "Emerald Cut" Isn't Just a Name
Of course, you must have come across emerald cut being used in other types of gemstones as well since this was the kind of cut which was designed particularly for emeralds. The advantage of using this type of cut is that it provides protection to the gemstone against chipping without compromising on the color or the clarity.
Oval, cushion, and round shapes are some of the most popular cuts which can be found in an emerald necklace. It is very important to buy a cut which is proportionate and symmetrical; otherwise, it will look dull despite its rich color.
A Note on Treatments
Most emeralds that are available on the market today have undergone some form of treatment, either with oil or resin, to enhance their appearance. It is common practice in the industry, although one may want to inquire as to when this takes place. Untreated emeralds are more rare and expensive.
How to Style an Emerald Gemstone Necklace
Everyday elegance: A single emerald necklace on a fine gold chain is all you need to inject some colour into your daily office or casual outfits without seeming too showy.
Occasions of significance: When set in a bigger size with surrounding diamonds, an emerald takes an elegant and glamorous form that is suitable for weddings, gala events, or any other milestone in life.
Skin tone matching: Being a cold tone of green, the emerald compliments most skin tones, although it particularly stands out against warm skin tones. A setting in yellow gold would enhance the warm appearance of the stone, while white gold or platinum makes it look colder.
Colour matching: Emerald green goes wonderfully well with black, white, or beige colours but it can also be paired with other jewels like sapphire blue or ruby red for a more dramatic effect.
Caring for Your Emerald Necklace
Emeralds are more fragile than diamonds, hence taking some extra precautions is worthwhile:
● Avoid using ultrasonic or steam cleaners that could harm emeralds enhanced by oil treatment. Use only a soft cloth and mild soapy water for cleaning.
● Take off the necklace when swimming or exercising, because chlorine and perspiration might have an effect on the stone.
● Keep it in a separate place from other gems, which can scratch the surface.
Check the mounting regularly, if worn frequently, to ensure that the stone is tightly set.