The world of gemstones is rich with history, beauty, and scientific intrigue. Among these treasures, the emerald holds a special place, particularly as the recognized birthstone for the month of May. This article delves into the characteristics of the emerald, its place in the jewelry market, and essential care guidelines, drawing solely from available information.
History and Lore
While a comprehensive historical account is not provided within the available sources, the information indicates the emerald’s current significance as a birthstone. The sources list May’s birthstone as emerald, establishing its modern association with the month. Beyond this, the provided materials do not offer details regarding ancient beliefs or historical uses of the emerald.
Gemological Properties
The provided sources primarily focus on the commercial aspects of emeralds within the context of jewelry, rather than detailed gemological properties. The sources indicate that emeralds are available as 3mm stones set in 14k yellow gold 3-prong settings. The jump ring bail measures 5x3mm. The sources do not provide information on the chemical composition, refractive index, or other standard gemological characteristics of emeralds.
However, a brief mention of opal care provides a comparative hardness reference. Australian and Ethiopian opals, similar in hardness to glass, register at 6.5 on the Mohs hardness scale. This suggests that emeralds, while not explicitly stated, require careful handling to avoid scratching or breakage, as they are also susceptible to damage from abrasive activities.
Market Value and Availability
The provided information centers on the pricing of emerald charms offered by a specific vendor. An emerald charm is listed at $185. The sources also detail pricing for various chain options to accompany the charm, ranging from $35 for a 14k gold fill adjustable chain to $280 for a 14ky 18" Cylinder chain. The pricing suggests that emeralds are positioned as a premium gemstone, reflected in the cost of the charm itself.
The sources also list the prices of other birthstone charms, providing a relative cost comparison:
- Garnet: $120
- Amethyst: $120
- Aquamarine: $135
- Diamond: $230
- Moonstone: $135
- Ruby: $145
- Peridot: $120
- Sapphire: $185
- Opal: $135
- Citrine: $135
- Tanzanite: $145
This pricing structure positions the emerald and sapphire as the most expensive options among the listed birthstones.
Metal Considerations and Jewelry Construction
The sources provide detailed information regarding the metals used in the jewelry construction, which is relevant to the care and longevity of an emerald setting. The options include 14k gold fill, 10k solid gold, 14k solid gold, and sterling silver.
- Gold Fill: Described as layers of solid 14k gold pressure bonded to a core of sterling silver or jeweler’s brass, offering a durable and price-friendly alternative to solid gold. It is nickel-free, hypoallergenic, and resistant to tarnishing.
- Solid Gold: Available in 10k and 14k options, providing a higher gold content and lasting value.
- Gold Plated: A thin layer of gold electrically deposited onto a surface, prone to wear over time.
- Sterling Silver: A softer metal that can tarnish when exposed to moisture or humidity.
The sources also explain a technique of gold plating over gold fill for fabricated pieces, ensuring even gold coverage after sanding and polishing.
Jewelry Care and Maintenance
The sources offer comprehensive guidance on jewelry care, with specific considerations for different gemstones and metals. General recommendations include:
- Removing jewelry before engaging in activities such as dishwashing, working out, gardening, cleaning, swimming, or using hand sanitizer.
- Avoiding exposure to salt water and chlorine, which can cause corrosion and discoloration.
- Storing jewelry separately to prevent scratching, ideally in a jewelry box or case.
- Using sealed plastic baggies with tarnish paper for sterling silver storage.
Specific cleaning instructions are provided:
- General Cleaning: Wash with warm water and gentle dish soap using a soft-bristled toothbrush. Soak for 5 minutes, scrub gently, and dry thoroughly.
- Cleaning Solution: A proprietary cleaning solution is available, suitable for most stones and metals except opals, alexandrites, and pearls.
- Polishing Cloth: A polishing cloth can be used on gold, sterling silver, and gold fill, but is not recommended for plated jewelry.
Specific Stone Care: Emerald and Opal
While the sources do not provide specific care instructions for emeralds, they offer valuable insights regarding opal care, which can inform the handling of other delicate gemstones. The sources differentiate between cultured opals (stronger and more durable) and Australian/Ethiopian opals (hardness of 6.5 on the Mohs scale, requiring careful handling).
The sources state that most "confetti" or "white" opals used in the Classic Collection are cultured, meaning they are stronger and less susceptible to damage from liquids or cleaning solutions. However, Australian and Ethiopian opals should be treated with extra care due to their lower hardness.
Conclusion
The available information highlights the emerald as a valued birthstone for May, offered in a specific jewelry format – a 3mm charm set in 14k gold. The pricing indicates its position as a premium gemstone. Proper care, considering the metal type and potential fragility of the stone, is crucial for preserving the beauty and longevity of emerald jewelry. The guidance provided on metal care and general cleaning practices, along with the comparative hardness information regarding opals, offers valuable insights for maintaining these delicate pieces.