Emerald engagement rings represent a different alternative to traditional diamond engagement rings. It is a very rare stone that, although it is not as hard as a diamond, with proper care and a good setting, emerald engagement rings can last a lifetime. In addition, its main characteristic is a green color that cannot be found naturally in any other gemstone.
We are certainly talking about a gemstone that can exhibit a classic look when paired with yellow gold. But that can also take on a modern aesthetic when set in white gold. Although we cannot fail to mention that, in addition, it combines very well with other precious stones, especially when it comes to diamonds.
If you are currently thinking about buying an engagement ring and have considered the emerald as a center stone, you should know beforehand that it also has some qualities that could make it problematic for everyday wear. So you may want to know the pros and cons of emerald engagement rings, so join us and find out what they are.
What is an emerald gemstone?
Emerald is the green gemstone that belongs to the beryl family of minerals. Therefore, it is closely related to other famous gemstones that are also a variety of beryl. Among them we have aquamarine, which is a type of blue beryl, morganite (pink beryl), heliodor (yellow beryl), and goshenite (colorless beryl).
In general, emeralds obtain their famous green hue thanks to the presence of chrome, vanadium and iron during their formation. Although the color of an emerald can vary depending on where it is extracted from. This is a very important characteristic in an emerald, so despite the fact that they are mined in various countries of the world, such as China and India, Brazil or Zambia. The most sought after for their unique colors are Colombian emeralds.
Emerald Engagement Rings: Its Pros
Emerald is a very valuable stone
The emerald is considered along with diamond, ruby and sapphire, a valuable gemstone. So an emerald engagement ring will hold its value over time. Something that makes them a good investment piece to pass on to future generations.
Emeralds are versatile
Emerald gemstones are highly versatile, so they will work well with a wide variety of setting styles. Which gives us many options for a non-traditional engagement ring.
Emeralds are usually more affordable than diamonds
Although they are still valuable compared to diamonds, emeralds are usually less expensive than diamonds, making them a more affordable option.
exclusive rings
Every bride wants something unique and an emerald engagement ring is an ideal choice. Since, being less common, her ring will be more exclusive than a more traditional diamond engagement ring.
perfect symbolism
For an engagement ring, emerald gemstones have the perfect symbolism. As they are called the stone of successful love, they symbolize hope and the future, patience, understanding, unity and compassion. They also represent growth, fertility, renewal and a strong mutual bond.
On the other hand, emerald is the birthstone for May which adds special meaning if your birthday falls in this month.
One colour
As we have mentioned, the green color of emeralds cannot be found naturally in any other gemstone. Mainly conditioned by trace elements such as chromium, vanadium and iron, whose varied presence or absence will dictate the color varieties in these beautiful gems. This stunning hue is sure to make your ring stand out from the crowd.
Emerald Engagement Rings: Its Cons
Emeralds are perfect for earrings, pendants, and other types of off-the-shelf jewelry, but for engagement rings, they should be used with care.
its durability
One of the main problems with emeralds is their durability. Since they are less strong stones than others such as sapphires, rubies or diamonds, with a typical Moh rating of 7.5 to 8. Therefore, they are more brittle and fracture more easily. Therefore, to withstand daily wear and tear, an emerald engagement ring must have a protective setting. Otherwise, it becomes a poor choice for a piece of jewelry that will be worn on a daily basis.
While there are lab-created emeralds that have better clarity and are much less expensive, they also have problems with their strength.
Emeralds have inclusions
Emeralds often have inclusions and cracks with the naked eye. Inclusions are technically a flaw in the stone, and should be something you consider before purchasing an emerald engagement ring. as they make them brittle and prone to breaking. While these are called ‘jardin’ (French for garden due to their tendril-like appearance) to make them appear more desirable, they are still inclusions, albeit with a fancy name.
But this is not necessarily a bad thing, although it can have an aesthetic impact and also on the price.
Emeralds must be cleaned carefully
Emeralds are oil treated as part of the post-lapidary process to improve their clarity. Therefore, they cannot be cleaned with ultrasound or chemicals due to their treatments. Being the best way to maintain your ring, simply use warm water, a mild soap and a soft toothbrush or cloth to wash the ring.