Emerald

The earliest emeralds were found in Egypt almost 4,000 years ago, and were highly prized by Cleopatra. Emerald, symbolizing youth, vitality, nature, and rebirth, is also believed by some to improve memory or help a person to become an eloquent speaker.

                                                                                                          VARITIES, QUALITIES & ORIGINS

                                     Emerald is the most rate variety of the gem species beryl that includes aquamarine (blue) and morganite (pink). The most rare and valuable emeralds are medium tone, the most vivid possible, slightly bluish-green inhue, and rivaled only by ruby in value.

                                     GEMSTONE ENHANCEMENTS

                                     Forming under very volatile conditions, even fine quality emeralds frequency have internal inclusions and fissures. These are not conisdered negative, as long as they do not affect the appearance or durability of the gem. Eneralds with fissures reaching the surface are often oiled to improve their appearance. This enhancement includes oils such as linseed, cedarwood and Canada balsam to sophisticated resins, polymers, and sealers.

                                     HARDNESS  (Scratch Resistance), 7 1/2 - 8 on the Moh's Scale.

                                     STABILITY  (To Heat, Light, Chemicals) Avoid heat, solvents, and hydrofluoric acid.

                                     REPAIR Remove from setting for most repairs.

                                     TOUGHNESS  (Chip & Crack Resistance) Poor (included gems) to Good

                                    CLEANING  Never use ultrasonic/steam cleaning.

                                    OCCASIONS  May Birtstone, 20th & 35th Wedding Anniversaries, The Spring/Cancer

Swalstead Jewelers