Emerald Jewellery
Emerald jewellery is defined by one thing above all others: the colour of the stone. Emerald is the green variety of beryl, and the most sought-after examples show a deep, saturated green with an even tone right across the stone. Natural emeralds commonly contain internal markings, known to gemmologists as the jardin, and and these are often considered part of the stone's natural character. Colour is one of the most important factors in an emerald's value, so a richly coloured stone with visible inclusions may be more desirable than a paler, cleaner example.
Emerald is softer than sapphire or diamond and dislikes knocks, heat and harsh cleaning, so it rewards a little care in return. Rings suit bezel or halo settings that protect the stone's edges, while pendants and earrings offer lower-impact wear for everyday pieces. As May's birthstone and a colour woven through Irish tradition, emerald carries meaning as well as beauty.
Each piece is hallmarked at the Assay Office and pairs naturally with gold jewellery in yellow, white or rose tones to complement the green.
Emerald Jewellery FAQs
Colour is one of the most important factors when choosing an emerald. Look for a green that is deep and evenly spread rather than patchy or washed out towards the edges. Clarity matters far less than it would with a diamond, because internal markings are normal in emerald and are not treated as defects.
Emerald forms under conditions that almost always leave inclusions, and gemmologists call this internal landscape the jardin, French for garden. A flawless natural emerald is extraordinarily rare. These markings are how the trade distinguishes a natural stone, so they are part of its identity rather than damage.
Emerald is reasonably hard, but its toughness can be affected by its internal inclusions, making it more vulnerable to knocks than stones such as sapphire or diamond. That makes it better suited to pieces that do not take constant knocks. If you want to wear emerald daily, choose a protective setting and be mindful of it during manual work.
Warm water, mild soap and a soft brush, then dry gently. Never use an ultrasonic cleaner or steam and keep emerald away from solvents and heat. Many emeralds are treated with oils or resins to improve their appearance, and harsh cleaning methods can affect these treatments.