May 02, 2024

May's Birthstone: Emerald

May ushers in the vibrant allure of the emerald. This captivating gemstone, renowned for its rich green hue and storied past, is more than just a beautiful jewel—it's a symbol of renewal, growth, and prosperity. Read on to discover why the emerald continues to fascinate jewelry enthusiasts around the world!

A TEAM CARTER'S FAVORITE

At Carter’s Collective, we adore emeralds! That’s why we offer a stunning variety of Emerald jewelry, crafted with precision and attention to detail. Each piece is meticulously designed to showcase the natural beauty and brilliance of the Emerald, making it the perfect choice for special occasions or everyday wear, and believe me, every piece is on my wishlist!

The Allure and History

Emeralds, with their stunning green tones, evoke images of lush landscapes and eternal spring. Their color ranges from a light green with bluish undertones to a deep, forest green, each shade captivating in its own right. The most prized emeralds are those with a deep, vivid green that holds a clear, bright saturation.

The allure of emeralds dates back thousands of years. Ancient Egyptians mined emeralds as early as 330 BC, and Cleopatra was famously passionate about them, adorning herself and her palace with these precious stones. The Incas and Aztecs of South America also revered emeralds, believing they were sacred. Throughout history, emeralds have been a symbol of power and wealth, often gracing the crowns and jewelry of monarchs and the elite.

Famous Emeralds in History

Several renowned emeralds have captured the world's imagination. The Crown of the Andes, a stunning piece adorned with 450 emeralds totaling nearly 1,523 carats, is a testament to the gem's historical and cultural significance (pictured top left). The Mogul Mughal Emerald, a 217.80-carat gem inscribed with Islamic prayers, showcases the gem's integration into royal and religious artifacts (pictured in bottom). And of course, the exquisite emerald jewelry of Elizabeth Taylor (pictured top left).

CLEANING & CARE

Like all precious gemstones, Emeralds require proper care to maintain their luster and beauty. Emerald is on the softer side of wearable gemstones, ranking as a 7-8 out of 10 on the Mohs Hardness Scale. To ensure longevity, it’s important to store your Emerald jewelry in a soft pouch or jewelry box away from other items that may scratch or damage the gemstone.

Additionally, avoid exposing your Emeralds to harsh chemicals or extreme temperatures, as these can cause irreparable damage.

Regular cleaning with a soft, lint-free cloth and mild soapy water can help remove dirt and debris, keeping your Emerald jewelry looking radiant for years to come. When cleaning your own personal jewelry between visits to Carter's, we recommend this jewelry cleaner.

At Carter’s Collective, we celebrate the timeless elegance of emeralds. Whether you're searching for a meaningful birthday gift, a luxurious anniversary present, or simply a treat for yourself, explore our exquisite collection of emerald jewelry online or visit us in-store today!