Definitive Guide to Emerald Rings

THE BASICS --

Emerald rings can be stunningly beautiful pieces with a rich depth of color and a wide range of designs to suit any jewelry preferences. Understanding more about emerald rings can help you better appreciate their fashionable flair and ensure you feel confident with the ring — or rings! — you choose.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW--

In this guide, we will explain the following:

• About Emeralds
• Emerald Ring Styles
  
• Caring for an Emerald Ring
  
• Is an Emerald Ring Right For You?

About Emeralds

Emeralds are the most valuable commonly green gemstone and one of the four precious gemstones, along with diamonds, rubies, and sapphires. As the green form of the mineral beryl, emeralds range in color from light yellow-green to deep green with blue or green undertones. These color variations are created by different chemical impurities in the stone’s crystalline structure, contributing to the rich spectrum of shades that make emeralds so sought after.

Emeralds measure 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale of hardness, making them durable enough for daily wear, though they can be brittle and prone to chipping or fracturing. Emeralds, the birthstone for May and the gemstone associated with the Zodiac sign Cancer, are also symbolic of the 20th and 35th wedding anniversaries, making them meaningful choices for personalized jewelry gifts. Known for representing rejuvenation, new beginnings, and the lushness of nature, emeralds are ideal for birthdays, anniversaries, and special occasions.

Emerald Ring Styles

Emerald rings come in a stunning range of styles. Because these gemstones have been highly prized for centuries, emeralds feature in many different jewelry eras, from accents in nature-based designs for both Victorian and Edwardian pieces, to the bold and colorful geometry of the Art Deco era.

Emeralds are showcased as center stones in engagement rings as well as cocktail rings, often paired with either diamonds for more sparkle or pearls for extra luster. Halo designs are particularly popular for emerald rings, as they add another layer of protection to the precious stone.

These gems can also be used as side stones for diamonds or other gemstones, adding their rich, unmistakable tones to the design. This is a great way to add the symbolism of an emerald to a ring design, and emeralds are popular in mother’s rings, anniversary rings, promise rings, or toi-et-moi designs.

All types of metals can pair well with emeralds. Yellow gold adds warmer tones to the stone and works exceptionally well with pure green emeralds or those with a yellow tinge to the overall stone color.

Meanwhile, white metals such as white gold, platinum, and palladium add a cool balance to emeralds and work very well with all shades of the gemstone.

The best settings for emeralds will not only keep the stone secure, but will also protect its delicate edges. Prong settings will work but should not be too high, while channel and bezel settings are even more protective to keep the edges secure and stabilized.

Caring for an Emerald Ring

Regardless of the ring style, emerald rings must be meticulously cared for to ensure their beauty for many years. Soaking an emerald ring in warm water with a mild degreasing soap will loosen dirt and debris, and the ring can be gently wiped with a lint-free cloth. Thorough rinsing will remove all traces of soap, and the ring can be dried with a cloth to remove water spots and permitted to air dry to be sure it is thoroughly clean.

No harsh solvents or scraping utensils – picks, brushes, etc. – should be used on emeralds, as the chance of scratching or chipping the stone is too high. Similarly, ultrasonic cleaners or high heat or steam cleaners should be avoided.

A great way to keep emerald rings looking their best is to take proactive action to protect the ring before it becomes soiled or damaged. Removing the jewelry before jarring activities such as sports or exercise, or before working with materials that could dirty the ring such as while gardening or cooking, will minimize dirt and debris that gets on the ring and could dull or obscure the stone. Regular inspections of the stone, setting, and overall ring design will catch any potential problems before the stone might be severely damaged or lost.

Is an Emerald Ring Right for You?

Emerald rings are beautiful pieces that can quickly become a centerpiece of your jewelry style. By understanding these iconic gems, the designs that showcase them the best, and how to care for them properly, your emerald rings can be amazing accents to any outfit or occasion, making others green with envy at your fashionable flair. Discover our exquisite collection of vintage emerald rings and find a timeless piece that tells your unique story. Start your journey to the perfect heirloom today.

Suzanne Sachs