Argentium® Silver Emerald & Yellow Sapphire Ring Handmade by Jewelry Artist Lisa Ramos. This design pairs a lush green emerald with a sunny yellow sapphire, highlighting the contrast and elegance of colored gemstones in fine silver.

15 Interesting Facts About Emerald Gemstones

1. The earliest discovery of emerald gemstones dates back to around 330 BCE in Egypt.
2. The formation of an emerald can take from millions to hundreds of millions of years.
3. Emerald is a green variety of the mineral beryl, colored by trace amounts of chromium or vanadium.
4. Emerald is both the modern and traditional birthstone for the month of May. Explore more in the Birthstone Colors & Meanings Guide .
5. Flawless emeralds are rare. Most stones contain inclusions, often referred to as “jardin,” the French word for garden.
6. One of the largest uncut emeralds is the “Duke of Devonshire Emerald.” It weighs 1,383.93 carats and is displayed at the Natural History Museum in London.
7. Emeralds can show secondary hues, often with blue or yellow undertones that influence the overall color.
8. Due to their inclusions and inherent fragility, emeralds are not typically heat-treated. Instead, many stones are enhanced by fracture filling with oils or resins to improve clarity and stability.
9. Emerald is traditionally associated with the 20th and 35th wedding anniversaries. Learn more in the Anniversary Jewelry & Gemstone Guide .
10. Emerald is considered a precious gemstone, grouped alongside diamond, sapphire, and ruby.
11. Emeralds are rated about 7.5–8 on the Mohs Hardness Scale , a system that measures gemstone durability.
12. The average cost of a one-carat emerald is often quoted around $1,600+, but pricing varies significantly based on the “Four Cs” of gemstone grading – color, clarity, cut, and carat weight.
13. Emerald deposits are found in countries such as Colombia, Brazil, and Zambia. Colombia remains a leading source, contributing a large percentage of the world’s emerald supply.
14. Emeralds are associated with love, loyalty, and devotion. The lush green color is often connected to growth, renewal, and rebirth, and has long been tied to wisdom, clarity, and communication.
15. To clean emerald jewelry, use warm water and mild soap only. Avoid ultrasonic and steam cleaners, and steer clear of harsh chemicals like ammonia or alcohol. Limit soaking time and gently pat dry with a soft cloth.

Emerald Meaning & Symbolism

Throughout history, emeralds have been treasured by royalty and collectors for their vivid green hues. The stone is often viewed as a symbol of hope and renewal, reflecting the lush colors of spring and nature.

Many associate emeralds with emotional balance, compassion, and insight. As a May birthstone, they are a meaningful way to celebrate personal milestones, birthdays, and anniversaries with a gemstone that feels both timeless and luxurious.

Emerald Care & Wear Tips

Because emeralds can include internal features and surface-reaching fractures, they benefit from gentle wear and careful cleaning:

• Remove emerald jewelry before intense physical activities or chores.
• Clean using warm water, mild soap, and a soft cloth or brush.
• Avoid ultrasonic and steam cleaners, as well as harsh chemicals.
• Store emerald pieces separately to help prevent scratches from harder gemstones.