Buying guide

Emerald

Colour saturation drives value far more than clarity. A slightly included stone with vivid, evenly distributed green outperforms a pale, clean one. Swat Valley (Pakistan) emeralds are prized for a cool, slightly bluish green and often show better transparency than Colombian material at the same price point.

Emerald at a glance

Mineral family: Beryl
Chemical formula: Be3Al2Si6O18
Mohs hardness: 7.5 - 8
Refractive index: 1.577 - 1.583
Specific gravity: 2.72
Crystal system: Hexagonal
Colours: green
Birthstone month: May
Anniversary: 20th & 35th
Typical treatment: Minor to moderate oiling or resin filling of surface-reaching fissures is standard and accepted trade practice.
In stock now: 32 stones from $58.00

What drives the price

In one line: Colour saturation, transparency, cut quality, origin.

Treatment

Minor to moderate oiling or resin filling of surface-reaching fissures is standard and accepted trade practice.

Any seller unwilling to state treatment in writing is telling you something. Every listing on this site states it.

Durability and daily wear

Never use ultrasonic or steam cleaners, most emeralds are oiled and heat or vibration can disturb the filler. Clean with lukewarm water, mild soap and a soft brush.

Mohs 7.5 - 8, hexagonal crystal system, specific gravity 2.72.

Tradition and meaning

Associated with the heart chakra, emotional balance, loyalty and renewal. Traditionally carried as a stone of successful love.

Birthstone for May. Associated with Taurus and Gemini. Anniversary stone: 20th & 35th.

Frequently asked

Are emeralds with inclusions normal?

Yes. Emeralds are a Type III gemstone, meaning inclusions are expected in virtually every stone. The trade calls the internal landscape the jardin (French for garden). A completely clean emerald of any size is more likely to be synthetic than natural.

What makes Swat emeralds different?

Emeralds from the Swat Valley in Pakistan are coloured by chromium and tend toward a cool, slightly bluish green with strong saturation at small sizes. They are typically cut in Peshawar and reach the market with less oiling than Colombian goods.

Can I wear an emerald ring daily?

With care. At 7.5-8 Mohs an emerald resists scratching, but its internal fissures make it prone to chipping on impact. A bezel or protective setting is recommended for daily wear.