Spotlight On... Emeralds
Posted by Lindsey Scoggins Studio on Nov 30th 2020
Spotlight On...
SPOTLIGHT ON... EMERALDS
BY MEREDITH JAYME
TAKE A LOOK INTO THE EXQUISITE WORLD OF EMERALDS WITH OUR GEMSTONE FEATURE THAT WILL SHARE EMERALD FACTS AND TELL YOU ALL THAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THIS SPECIAL GEM.
EMERALD FACTS:
ABOUT:
The deep green shade of an emerald is one of the most recognizable and widely popular gemstones. Known for having an interesting variety of magical properties, this vibrant green gemstone has a unique history. With fans ranging from Cleopatra to Elizabeth Taylor, the emerald is certainly a lust-worthy jewel. Keep reading for more emerald facts.
WHO/WHAT:
The word “emerald” originates from the Greek word for green gem.
CLASSIFICATION:
Emerald is a member of the Beryl family which also includes Aquamarine and Morganite.
MOHS SCALE OF HARDNESS:
Ranking from a 7.5 to 8
COLOR/CUT:
Emeralds range from the rich, deep green that it is most known for to a lighter more opaque shade of green depending on the quality of the specific stone. Most emeralds have numerous inclusions so oil-filling is a treatment that is frequently used to enhance the appearance and quality of the stone. The Emerald Cut was initially created for emerald jewelry designs. It’s purpose was to enhance the color of the stone and to prevent chipping. This rectangular-shaped cut has become one of the most popular cuts for all gemstones and diamonds.
WHEN/WHERE:
Emeralds and emerald jewelry designs were first discovered in Egypt and are now primarily mined in Columbia. The first Egyptian mines date back to at least 330 BC. Today, emeralds are found all over the world with Columbia remaining as the largest producer and Zambia as the second largest. Emeralds have been found in the US in North Carolina, South Carolina, Montana, Nevada and Connecticut.
PROPERTIES/FOLKLORE:
Here are some fun facts about emerald - it is said to have numerous healing properties. It was believed that when placed under the tongue, emeralds provided psychic abilities, allowing one to see into the future. It was also believed that emeralds had the ability to improve vision and act as an antidote to poison. Emeralds were even crushed to make an eye powder that was used in the era of Hippocrates. Emeralds are also said to enhance memory and emotional stability. More reasons to invest in an emerald include that they are said to open the heart chakra, provide mental clarity, bring good fortune and harmony, and attract love. Additionally, emeralds signify rebirth and love.
MOST NOTABLE EMERALDS & EMERALD JEWELRY DESIGNS
THE CHALK EMERALD
This massive emerald originally weighed 38.4 carats. It is now 37.8 carats after being cut by Harry Winston and set with 15 carats of diamonds. It is currently on display at the Smithsonian.
ATAHUALPA EMERALD
The 24 carat Atahualpa Emerald is a part of the Crown of the Andes along with nearly 450 emeralds. The gold crown was originally created as an adornment and gift of gratitude to the Virgin Mary. It now resides at the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
ATAHUALPA EMERALD
The 24 carat Atahualpa Emerald is a part of the Crown of the Andes along with nearly 450 emeralds. The gold crown was originally created as an adornment and gift of gratitude to the Virgin Mary. It now resides at the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
CATHERINE THE GREAT'S EMERALD NECKLACE
A 75.61 carat emerald necklace was the prized possession of Emperor of Russia, Catherine the Great. In 2019 this exquisite emerald jewlry design sold for $4.3 million via Christie’s Magnificent Jewels auction.
ELIZABETH TAYLOR'S BULGARI BROOCH
This diamond and 23.46 carat emerald brooch was gifted to Elizabeth Taylor by Richard Burton. She later wore it to their wedding. It now holds the record for the most expensive emerald jewelry item sold at auction after being sold through Christie’s in 2011 for $6.6 million.
ELIZABETH TAYLOR'S BULGARI BROOCH
This diamond and 23.46 carat emerald brooch was gifted to Elizabeth Taylor by Richard Burton. She later wore it to their wedding. It now holds the record for the most expensive emerald jewelry item sold at auction after being sold through Christie’s in 2011 for $6.6 million.
THE STOTESBURY EMERALD
This 34.4 carat emerald has traded hands between some of the most iconic collectors over the course of its history including Pierre Cartier and Harry Winston. It last sold for $996,500 at Sotheby’s in 2017.
GACHALA EMERALD
Last but certainly not least, the Gachalá Emerald is an 858 carat emerald that was found in 1967 in the town of Gachalá, Colombia. In 1969 Harry Winston donated this legendary emerald to the Smithsonian.
GACHALA EMERALD
Last but certainly not least, the Gachalá Emerald is an 858 carat emerald that was found in 1967 in the town of Gachalá, Colombia. In 1969 Harry Winston donated this legendary emerald to the Smithsonian.
SHOP OUR EMERALD JEWELRY AND DESIGNS AVAILABLE FOR COMMISSION
Commission your own emerald jewelry designs or learn more about emerald facts and the jewelry included here by getting in touch.