Smaragd is the green variety of the mineral beryl and, alongside diamond, ruby, and sapphire, belongs to the four classic gemstones. Its color ranges from fresh green to deep fir green — caused by traces of chromium and vanadium. Characteristic are fine inclusions that connoisseurs lovingly call “Jardin.” Emerald has been considered a stone of hope and renewal since antiquity.
What is an Emerald?
Emerald is green beryl — a mineral made of beryllium aluminum silicate. Only the inclusion of chromium and sometimes vanadium gives it its distinctive green. Pure beryl would be colorless; an emerald is thus a fortunate accident of nature. On the Mohs hardness scale, it reaches 7.5 to 8 and is therefore hard, but due to its inclusions, it is more sensitive to shocks than a diamond. The best-known deposits are in Colombia, Zambia, and Brazil, with Colombian stones often considered particularly intense.
Those looking for colored gemstones in 585 gold will find a handpicked selection of gold chains with gemstones and gold rings with gemstones at Splendido Schmuck.
Emerald Green: What Matters in the Color
Few gemstones have color as decisive for their value as emeralds. Three criteria are especially important:
- Hue: The most sought-after green is lively and rich green, neither too light nor leaning toward bluish or yellowish tones.
- Saturation: A strong, even saturation makes the stone glow from within.
- Brightness: A medium to deep green is considered ideal — too dark makes the stone look dull.
Unlike diamonds, flawless clarity is neither the rule nor the goal for emeralds: color takes precedence, and small inclusions are part of their character.
Inclusions — the “Jardin” in the Stone
Almost every natural emerald shows fine internal structures: tiny crystals, fissures, and veils. In gemology, this network is called “Jardin,” French for garden — because under the magnifying glass it looks like a tangled little garden. What would be considered a flaw in other stones is a mark of authenticity and part of the emerald’s character. A completely “clean” emerald is rare and correspondingly valuable — or a synthetically grown stone.
These very inclusions make every emerald unique: no two stones are exactly alike. Wearing an emerald means wearing a piece of nature that exists only once in this form — a thought that adds emotional value to such a piece.
Most emeralds are treated with a colorless oil or resin to visually close fine cracks. This has been common practice for centuries and is accepted in the trade. The important thing is: this treatment makes the stone sensitive to heat and chemicals — both should be avoided when caring for it.
Emerald Meaning: Symbolism & History
Few gemstones are as rich in history as the emerald. Cleopatra is said to have had a fondness for green emeralds, and in ancient Egypt, the stone symbolized eternal life. Over the centuries, many attributes have been ascribed to emeralds — it still symbolizes hope, loyalty, and new beginnings today. In the language of gemstones, its green stands for growth and harmony.
Emerald is also the traditional birthstone for May and is considered the stone for the 55th wedding anniversary. This symbolism makes it a popular gift with a personal message — for example as a wedding gift or for a special anniversary.
An emerald visibly carries its history within — no stone is like another.
Splendido SchmuckNatural Emerald, Synthetic Emerald & Imitations
In the market, you will encounter three groups that differ clearly. A good overview helps to assess the value of a stone:
- Natural Emerald: grown in the earth, with typical Jardin. The most valuable and sought-after stone — and the one with the greatest history.
- Synthetic Emerald: lab-grown, chemically identical to the natural stone, but usually purer and significantly cheaper.
- Imitations: green glass or dyed other stones that only mimic the color. They have nothing in common with real emeralds.
When buying, a reputable seller always provides information about the origin and any treatment of the stone. Splendido Schmuck relies on genuine materials and fair prices and clearly states what you are purchasing.
Emerald Jewelry: Engagement Ring, Ring & Necklace
Its deep green makes the emerald a striking centerpiece — especially in warm 585 yellow gold, which elegantly frames the color. As an engagement ring with emerald, it is a distinctive alternative to the classic solitaire and symbolically stands for loyalty and a shared new beginning. A gold ring with emerald works as a solitaire as well as surrounded by small diamonds in a halo setting.
Because an emerald is more delicate than a diamond, a protective setting that encloses the edges of the stone is worthwhile. At Splendido Schmuck, you will find colored gemstones in 585 gold rings and gold jewelry — handpicked and set in nickel-free 585 gold that does not tarnish.
How to Care for Emeralds Properly
As hard as an emerald is — due to its inclusions and usual oil treatment, it belongs to the more delicate gemstones. With a little care, it will accompany you for a lifetime:
- Clean emerald jewelry only with lukewarm water, a drop of mild dish soap, and a soft cloth.
- Absolutely avoid ultrasonic and steam cleaners — heat and vibration can damage the stone.
- Keep the emerald away from perfume, hairspray, and harsh cleaners; put on the jewelry only after applying cosmetics.
- Store it separately and cushioned so that harder stones do not scratch it.
Remove emerald jewelry before housework, sports, and bathing. This avoids shocks and contact with chemicals — the two most common causes of damage to this stone.
Colored Gemstones from Splendido Schmuck
Whether the deep green of the emerald or other vibrant colored stones — at Splendido Schmuck you will find handpicked, carefully selected gemstone jewelry pieces in genuine 585 gold from Italian goldsmiths. Discover our gold chains with gemstones as well as suitable gift ideas for engagements. At Splendido Schmuck, you enjoy free shipping and returns as well as a 30-day return policy.
