Emerald is the birthstone for the month of May and is one of the most cherished and valued gemstones in the world. This gemstone is known for its striking green colour and its historical significance, making it a favourite among collectors and jewellery enthusiasts.
The vibrant green colour of the emerald is caused by the presence of chromium and vanadium within the crystal structure. These trace elements give the gemstone its unique green hue, which can range from a pale green to a deep, rich forest green. The deeper and more vivid the green, the more valuable the stone is considered to be.
The emerald is not only celebrated as the birthstone for May but it also has its own anniversary celebration. In 2019, the Emerald Anniversary celebrated the 55th anniversary of the marriage of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip. The Queen was gifted an emerald tiara by her mother as a wedding gift, which she has been seen wearing at various royal events over the years.
The Emerald Anniversary also celebrated the significance of emeralds in the royal family’s history. Queen Victoria was a great admirer of emeralds and often wore jewellery featuring the gemstone. She passed down several emerald pieces to her daughter-in-law, Queen Alexandra, who also had a fondness for emeralds and wore them frequently.
The anniversary was marked by a special exhibition at the Buckingham Palace, showcasing various emerald pieces from the royal collection. Visitors were able to see stunning emerald tiaras, necklaces, and brooches worn by royalty throughout history.
When it comes to buying an emerald, it’s important to look for a stone that has a rich, even colour and minimal inclusions or imperfections. Inclusions are naturally occurring blemishes within the gemstone.
Jardin is a term used to describe the natural inclusions and imperfections found in emeralds. The word “jardin” is French for “garden,” and it is an apt description of the way the inclusions appear within the gemstone, creating a garden-like effect. They are a characteristic of emeralds that can make them even more desirable.
Famous emeralds with jardin include the “Mogul Mughal” emerald, which weighs over 200 carats and features a distinctive garden-like inclusion. The “Duke of Devonshire” emerald, which is now housed in the British Museum, also features a striking jardin that adds to its character and charm.
It is clear that the emerald has played an important role in the royal family’s history and is still cherished to this day. Whether worn by royalty or by everyday people, the emerald’s unique beauty and significance will continue to captivate for years to come.
