Emerald jewelry
Handcrafted emerald necklaces, earrings, and bracelets, made to order in our Colorado studio. Set in sterling silver, 14K gold-fill, and solid 14K gold.
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About emerald
Emerald is a beryllium aluminum silicate mineral, a variety of beryl rated 8 on the Mohs hardness scale, well suited to necklaces, earrings, and bracelets with gentle everyday care. Its color ranges from vivid spring green to deep forest green, with the most prized stones showing even saturation and high clarity.
Emerald is a variety of the mineral beryl, colored vivid green by trace amounts of chromium and vanadium. The finest stones come from Colombia, Zambia, and Brazil. Most natural emeralds contain visible inclusions called jardins, French for gardens, which are accepted as part of the stone's character and proof of its natural origin. Light oiling to enhance clarity is a standard and traditional practice in the emerald trade.
Historically, emerald has been associated with renewal, abundance, and enduring love. Treasured by Cleopatra and worn by Mughal emperors and European royalty, emerald has been the gemstone of devotion, wisdom, and lasting prosperity for over 4,000 years.
Emerald vs chrysoprase
Same color family, different stones. Here's how to choose.
Emerald
Transparent, faceted, Mohs 7.5 to 8. Vivid, jewel-tone green with natural inclusions called jardins that give each stone individual character. One of the four precious gemstones alongside diamond, ruby, and sapphire.
Chrysoprase
Opaque to translucent apple green, Mohs 6.5 to 7. A softer, more affordable green stone with a waxy or chalcedony-like finish. Beautiful in pendants but less brilliant and less durable than emerald.
Born in May?
Emerald is the sole May . Emerald stands alone as May's birthstone, a precious gem ranked alongside diamond, ruby, and sapphire. Its vivid green captures the spirit of spring, and its 4,000-year history makes it one of the most storied stones a person can wear.
See all May birthstones on the May birthstone jewelry hub.
Shop May birthstone jewelryShop more
Made to order in Colorado
Every emerald piece is handcrafted to order in our Steamboat Springs studio, shipped in about 10 business days, and arrives in eco-friendly gift packaging.
Emerald jewelry FAQ
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What month is emerald the birthstone for?
Emerald is the sole birthstone for May. It is also the traditional gemstone for 20th, 35th, and 55th wedding anniversaries, making it a popular choice for milestone gifts.
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Is emerald a real gemstone?
Yes. Emerald is a naturally occurring variety of the mineral beryl, colored green by trace amounts of chromium and vanadium. It is one of the four precious gemstones alongside diamond, ruby, and sapphire. Most natural emeralds receive a traditional oil treatment to enhance clarity, a standard and widely accepted practice in the gemstone industry.
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How is emerald different from chrysoprase?
Emerald is harder than chrysoprase (Mohs 7.5 to 8 vs 6.5 to 7), transparent rather than opaque, and faceted to maximize brilliance. Chrysoprase has a softer, apple-green color and a waxy finish. Emerald is also one of the four precious gemstones, while chrysoprase is a more affordable green alternative.
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What does emerald symbolize?
Emerald has long symbolized renewal, abundance, and enduring love. Connected to the heart chakra, it is often gifted to mark milestone anniversaries (20th, 35th, and 55th), May birthdays, and Mother's Day.
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Can I wear emerald jewelry every day?
Yes, with gentle care. Emerald rates 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale and is durable enough for daily wear in necklaces, earrings, and bracelets. Avoid ultrasonic and steam cleaners, harsh chemicals, and hard impacts. Clean with mild soapy water and a soft cloth.
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What zodiac signs does emerald suit?
Emerald aligns most closely with Taurus and Gemini, the two signs that span May. Its grounding, heart-centered energy also complements Cancer's emotional depth.