May's Birthstone: Emerald

     The name emerald comes from the Greek word smargados and the Old French esmeralde, which really just means “green gem.” It is a variety of the Beryl mineral family, related to aquamarine and morganite. Emerald’s green color makes it highly regarded, although inclusions normally are visible to the naked eye. These inclusions do not tend to detract from the gem’s value – an included gem with a deep, lively green color will have much higher value than an almost flawless emerald whose color is pale.
     The finest emeralds are found in Colombia – esteemed for their true green color, without any traces of blue. Many emeralds are enhanced with colorless oils or resins – a commonly accepted industry practice. This treatment leaves the gem vulnerable to heat and direct sunlight, and should never be cleaned in the ultrasonic.
     An extremely rare variety of emerald is referred to a Trapiche Emerald, and found in Colombia. Its name comes from the phrase trapiche de azucar, or “sugar mill,” and refers to the gem’s resemblance to the grinding wheel used to process sugar cane in the region.

Imagine Designs 18k White Gold Pendant with 6x4mm Oval Emerald and .24ctw Round Diamonds - $2400

Spark Creations
Earrings: 18k White Gold with .74ctw Round Emeralds and .44ctw Round Diamonds - $4100
Ring: 18k White Gold with 1.05ctw Round Emeralds and .27ctw Round Diamonds - $5575