GEMOLOGICAL PROPERTIES OF EMERALD

Color Green Green (yellowish green through bluish green)
Family Beryl
Mohs Scale Hardness 7.5 – 8
Specific Gravity 2.67 – 2.78
Refractive Index 1.560 – 1.605
Luster Vitreous
Crystal System Hexagonal
Transparency Transparent to opaque
Chemical Formula Be3Al2(SiO3)6
Composition Beryllium Aluminium Silicate

Chemical Composition:

Emeralds are a variety of the mineral beryl, with the green color resulting from the presence of chromium and vanadium. The chemical formula is Be3Al2(SiO3)6.

Color:

The most desirable emerald color is a rich, vivid green with a slight bluish or yellowish undertone. The intensity and purity of the green color significantly affect an emerald’s value. Lighter or more yellowish stones are typically less valuable

Hardness:

Emeralds are not as hard as diamonds, with a hardness of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale. This means they are less resistant to scratching and damage, so they require careful handling and maintenance

Clarity:

Most emeralds contain inclusions (internal flaws), which are often referred to as “jardin” (French for garden). These inclusions are considered part of the emerald’s character and can affect its clarity. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) uses a clarity scale to assess emeralds, with the highest grade being “Flawless” for no visible inclusions

Carat Weight:

The size of an emerald is measured in carats, similar to other gemstones. Larger emeralds are rarer and more valuable, but the quality of the color and clarity also plays a significant role in determining value

Cut:

The cut of an emerald is crucial to maximize its beauty. They are often cut in a rectangular shape with cut corners, known as the “emerald cut.” The goal is to display the depth and color of the gemstone while minimizing the impact of any inclusions

Sources:

Some of the most famous sources of emeralds are Colombia, Zambia, Brazil, and Zimbabwe. Colombian emeralds are particularly renowned for their quality and color

Treatment:

Many emeralds are treated to enhance their clarity. This is a common practice in the industry, and treated emeralds are typically disclosed as such.

Symbolism:

Emeralds have long been associated with love, rebirth, and fertility. They are often used in jewelry to symbolize renewal and growth. Emeralds are also the birthstone for the month of May.

Care:

Due to their relative softness and susceptibility to damage, emeralds require special care. They should be protected from harsh chemicals, sudden temperature changes, and physical impact.

Emeralds are cherished for their stunning green hues and are a classic choice for jewelry, particularly in rings, necklaces, earrings, and pendants. Their rich color and historical significance make them a highly sought-after gemstone, particularly for those who appreciate the beauty of green gemstones.