Diving Into the Opulence of Emeralds
Emeralds are a highly-prized gemstone known for their vibrant green color, which is caused by trace amounts of chromium, vanadium, and iron within the mineral Beryl. Due to their relative softness compared to other gemstones, emeralds require careful handling during cutting and setting.
It is common to use emeralds for engagement rings. Emeralds make a beautiful and unique choice for engagement rings, allowing you to feel confident in your selection. They are a stunning and meaningful alternative to the more traditional diamond engagement ring.
The Rare and Radiant Green
Emeralds are renowned for their captivating color, with the most sought-after hue being a deep green. High-quality emeralds with an intense color are exceptionally rare, as many emeralds tend to have a lighter or medium green tint.
The rarity of these top-grade emeralds is due not only to the specific geological conditions required to create such a rich color but also to the fact that many emeralds contain inclusions that influence their appearance.
The Luscious Green Garden Within Emeralds
Emeralds are unique among colored gemstones for their inclusions, often referred to as the Jardin effect, a French word meaning ‘garden,’ which describes the web-like patterns of internal features within the stone. These inclusions are a natural part of emeralds, formed during their growth under intense geological conditions.
Unlike diamonds, where clarity is highly prized, and inclusions can significantly reduce the value, inclusions in emeralds are more accepted and even appreciated as a characteristic of the stone's natural beauty and authenticity. However, an emerald's clarity still plays a crucial role in determining its value.
While some inclusions are expected, emeralds with fewer inclusions, especially those that do not impact the stone's transparency, are more valuable.
The Intricate Dance of Cutting and Setting Emeralds
Cutting and setting emeralds present unique challenges that distinguish them from other gemstones. Working with the softness and inclusions often found in these precious gemstones requires detailed knowledge and extensive expertise, which plays a significant role in determining the overall cost of creating fine jewelry with emeralds.
While diamonds have long been the standard for engagement rings, many couples are now opting for alternative gemstone options that reflect their personal style. Gemstone engagement rings are gaining popularity as a mesmerizing choice.
Refined Strength
Emeralds are between 7.5 and 8 on the Mohs hardness scale, making them relatively softer than other stones, such as diamonds, which top the hardness scale at 10. Due to their relative softness, emeralds can be more prone to light surface wear, such as scratches or small chips, especially during the cutting and setting processes.
The natural inclusions found within emeralds add to their unique character, though they can also introduce delicate areas in the stone. Because of this, cutting an emerald requires exceptional skill, experience, and precision to maintain its integrity and beauty.
The Pinnacle of Skilled Craftsmanship
Due to their unique characteristics, working with emeralds requires highly skilled craftsmanship. Master gem cutters must navigate these challenges to optimize the emerald's beauty while minimizing the risk of damage during the cutting process.
This delicate work involves not only precise cutting but also careful planning to enhance the stone's color while preserving its structural integrity.
Similarly, skilled jewelers must design and set emeralds in ways that shield the stone from potential damage while showcasing its magnificent green color. This emerald engagement ring in white gold is the pinnacle of skilled craftsmanship.
The Art of Emerald Treatments and Enhancements
Emeralds are commonly treated to enhance their appearance, with oiling being one of the most prevalent methods. This process involves soaking the emerald in oils or resins to fill surface-reaching fissures, enhancing the stone's overall clarity.
Oiling can refine the stone's appearance while also supporting its durability. It requires a skilled and thoughtful application to preserve the stone's enhanced look.
Mark Broumand's Evergreen Collection of Emerald Rings
At Mark Broumand, we offer a vibrant collection of emerald engagement rings in all price points. Whether you are looking for a jewelry piece with an intricate design or a more minimalist aesthetic, we have something for every taste.
We take great pride in the quality and craftsmanship of every piece in our collection. From classic solitaire designs to contemporary halo settings and everything in between, you're sure to discover an emerald ring that speaks to your unique sensibilities.
Each piece is meticulously crafted to highlight the emerald's beauty while ensuring durability. Our knowledgeable team will help you find the perfect emerald ring that matches your style and spending plan.
