Emerald
Precious stone
Emerald is the green variety of beryl, coloured by chromium and vanadium. Almost always crossed by inclusions — the « garden » — it is chosen first and foremost for the vividness of its green.
Gemmological facts
- Species
- Beryl
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 7.5 – 8
- Family
- Precious stone
- Signature colour
- Green
- Mineral species: Beryl (beryllium aluminium silicate)
- Hardness: 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale, yet a fragile stone: inclusions make it sensitive to knocks.
- Colours: Pure green to slightly bluish or yellowish green, from soft green to deep green.
Main origins
Colombia (Muzo, Chivor)
Benchmark pure, slightly bluish greens.
Zambia
Darker and often cleaner greens.
Brazil
Light to medium greens, large sizes available.
Ethiopia
Recent deposit, vivid hues.
Best-suited cuts
Emerald cut
Step-cut rectangle: it protects the corners and reveals the colour.
Cushion
Softens the silhouette while keeping volume of colour.
Oval
A good compromise between brilliance and material yield.
Cabochon
The usual choice for heavily included stones.
Jewellery and care
Cocktail ring, pendant, earrings and brooch. For a ring worn daily, choose a setting that protects the corners.
Never use ultrasonic or steam cleaning: emeralds are often oiled to reduce the visibility of fissures. Lukewarm water, a soft cloth, and storage away from harder stones.