Emerald Birthstone

Emerald is the birthstone of May and the anniversary gemstone for the 20th and 35th years of marriage. It is thought to be the gem of eternal spring. They have been cherished since ancient times. The origins of the emerald have been traced to almost 3000 BC in both ancient Egypt and India. It has a reputation as being an expensive gemstone. However, you can buy and emerald for as little as $25 a carat. There are some emeralds that are very pricey and can get as expensive as $10 000 to $15 000 per carat. But a very respectable emerald can be purchased for a few hundred dollars per carat, making them affordable. The prices of emeralds vary so greatly because of the difference in their qualities. The best emerald mineral is beryl. As well, to be of high quality, the mineral must be primarily green. The best are bright green and as close to possible to being free from inclusions (internal growth characteristics of the gem often seen as a crystal or white cloudy area). These characteristics are what make the differences in the prices.

Another factor that goes into determining price is how the stone is cut (similarly to diamonds). This means that the gem has to be faceted to return more light and colour to the eye, and that all of the junctions meet crisply. Another question that has to be considered is whether or not the emeralds have been treated with colourless oils to soften the visible effects of inclusions. Another practise that has not been approved of by the trade is the treating of emeralds with epoxy resins to fill surface reaching cracks and fissures. It is deceptive if it not disclosed to the customer. The origin of the emeralds has some effect on price - though this aspect should is not that important.


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