Image: A collection of emerald jewelry, featuring emerald necklaces, earrings, and an uncut emerald. The necklaces and earrings showcase brilliant green emeralds set in various designs, while an uncut emerald gemstone is also featured in its raw form.

Emeralds
Everything You Need to Know

Image: A collection of emerald jewelry, featuring emerald necklaces, earrings, and an uncut emerald. The necklaces and earrings showcase brilliant green emeralds set in various designs, while an uncut emerald gemstone is also featured in its raw form.

Emeralds
Everything You Need to Know

Emeralds: Everything You Need to Know

Emerald is a beautiful green gemstone popular for jewelry. Unlike diamonds, there is no “proper” cut when it comes to emeralds, which naturally show their vibrance internally. The color of emeralds is divided between hue, saturation, and tone. Emeralds range from yellow-green to blue-green to green. Jewelers grade emeralds by eye, meaning that if no inclusions are noticed, it’s deemed “eye clean.”


At Shane Co., we carefully selected only the highest quality emeralds that are mint-green to blue-green in color. They feature a medium tone with medium to dark saturation. 

Image: Four exquisite emerald rings crafted in yellow gold. Each ring showcases a vibrant green emerald gemstone set within a beautiful yellow gold band, creating a stunning and elegant jewelry collection.

Emerald Jewelry

Emerald is one of the four gemstones traditionally considered to be precious along with diamond, ruby, and sapphire. Emeralds have been used in jewelry for centuries, with a revival during the Art Deco period. Today, emerald jewelry remains popular, with well-known pieces like Angeline Jolie’s emerald earrings that she wore to the 2009 Oscars. 


Emeralds look great with all metal types, including white gold, yellow gold, and rose gold. At Shane Co., we offer a variety of emerald pieces, including rings, necklaces, earrings, and bracelets.

Shop All Emerald Jewelry

Emerald Care and Cleaning

You should regularly have your emeralds inspected to prevent any loose stones. As far as cleaning, we recommend a gentle cleaning using a soft cloth and mild soapy water. Avoid using harsh chemicals and avoid using an ultrasonic cleaner. Handle your emerald jewelry with clean hands, avoiding contact with oils and lotions. At Shane Co., as part of our Free Lifetime Warranty, you get free maintenance and cleaning for life.

Image: Four exquisite emerald rings crafted in yellow gold. Each ring showcases a vibrant green emerald gemstone set within a beautiful yellow gold band, creating a stunning and elegant jewelry collection.

Things to Consider When Buying Emerald Jewelry 

When purchasing emerald jewelry, you’ll want to pay attention to several factors. Look at the appearance of the emerald, like the color, clarity, and cut. Make sure it’s a vibrant green color with minimal inclusions (though these marks are more widely accepted in emeralds than in other gemstones like diamonds). 

You’ll also want to make sure that the emerald is set properly, as it is a more delicate gemstone that needs to be secure. Fortunately, at Shane Co., we’re here to help ensure that you find emerald jewelry that meets your exact needs.

Image: A dazzling jewelry set featuring an emerald and diamond yellow gold necklace and a pair of matching earrings. The necklace showcases a stunning emerald gemstone paired with brilliant diamonds, on a yellow gold chain. The earrings mirror the necklace's design, creating a coordinated and luxurious jewelry ensemble.

History of Emeralds

Emeralds were first worn by ancient Egyptians, dating back to at least 330 B.C.E. into the 1700s. Cleopatra was known to love emeralds and wear them in her royal adornments. Ancient Egyptians also used emeralds for healing purposes. Emerald may come from the ancient Greek word for green, “smarágdi.” It’s also said to have come from the Sanskrit word “marakata,” meaning “the green of growing things.” 


Rome’s famous Pliny the Elder described emeralds as exceptionally green while offering comfort and relieving stress. Ancient Incan people used emeralds in their jewelry and religious ceremonies. When Spanish explorers invaded the New World, they traded emeralds for precious metals. Emeralds were also seen in China and throughout other cultures. It’s been a popular stone for centuries due to its unique beauty. 

Emerald: May’s Birthstone

Emerald is the official birthstone of May. It has been recognized as such for centuries, though birthstones were officially standardized early in the 20th century. Emerald is said to celebrate renewal and nature during the month of May, which falls in the spring. In addition to being May’s birthstone, emerald is also considered a symbol for the 20th and 55th wedding anniversaries. 

Fun Facts About Emeralds

Emerald is known for many of its stunning properties. Check out some fun facts about emerald:


  • Emerald is said to bring loyalty and provide domestic bliss. Some believe that it enhances unconditional love and unity, and promotes friendship. 

  • Emerald is the official gemstone of the 20th and 55th anniversaries.

  • On the Mohs scale of hardness, emerald rates as a 7.5 to 8. For context, a diamond is a 10 on the Mohs scale. 

  • Emerald is a variety of beryl, just like other popular gemstones including morganite and aquamarine. 

  • The Duke of Devonshire is one of the largest uncut emerald gemstones ever found. It’s currently kept in “The Vault” in London’s Natural History Museum. 
Image: A close-up view of a woman's earlobe adorned with elegant emerald stud earrings. The emerald gemstones glisten with a rich green hue.

Emerald Jewelry at Shane Co.

Emerald jewelry at Shane Co. is covered under our Free Lifetime Warranty, meaning we’re here to maintain your piece. Care & Cleaning inspections are also covered under this warranty. Emerald jewelry is also under our Upgrade Policy.


Shop emerald jewelry at Shane Co. to find a gorgeous green gemstone that you love. For help from one of our expert jewelry consultants, book an appointment online or in-store today. 

Image: A close-up view of a woman's earlobe adorned with elegant emerald stud earrings. The emerald gemstones glisten with a rich green hue.

Frequently Asked Questions About Emeralds

How Is the Value of an Emerald Determined?

Typically, an emerald with a bright color and few inclusions is determined to be a more valuable option than its alternatives. Cut, clarity, carat weight, and treatment all play a role in the value of an emerald. 

Are All Emeralds Green?

Yes, all emeralds are green, though the shades can vary from a more yellowish color to a more blue-green hue. 

Can Emeralds Be Used for Engagement Rings?

Yes, emeralds can be used for engagement rings. Currently, we only offer emerald jewelry within our fashion collection. This is because emerald is a softer gemstone that requires extra care, so we only offer pieces that offer ultimate security.