If you’re after an engagement ring that stands out from the crowd, you may be considering an emerald as your centre stone. Emeralds, with their mesmerising green hue and rich history, make a stunning and unique choice for an engagement ring.

Before you make your decision, here's everything you really need to know about selecting an emerald centre stone.

1. Understanding the Colour - Emeralds are known for their vibrant green colour, which is caused by the presence of chromium, vanadium and iron. The most desirable emeralds have a pure, saturated green hue with a slight bluish tint. The colour should be evenly distributed throughout the stone, without any colour zoning or banding.
2. Clarity and Inclusions - Unlike diamonds, emeralds are expected to have some inclusions, which are natural imperfections within the stone. These inclusions can appear as tiny crystals, needles, or wisps and are often referred to as "jardin," which is French for "garden." While some inclusions are acceptable, too many can affect the stone's durability and overall appearance.
3. Cut and Shape - Emeralds are most commonly cut into a rectangular or square shape, known as the "emerald cut," which maximizes the stone's colour, minimizes the visibility of inclusions. The lack of corners also makes the emerald cut, which was invented specially for emeralds, more durable. Other popular shapes include oval, pear, and cushion cuts.
4. Carat Weight - Emeralds are typically less dense than diamonds, which means that a one-carat emerald will appear larger than a one-carat diamond. However, due to their rarity, emeralds can be more expensive than diamonds of the same size. When choosing an emerald, consider your budget and the overall balance of the stone's colour, clarity and cut.
5. Treatment and Enhancements - Most emeralds on the market have been treated with oil or resin to minimise the appearance of inclusions and enhance the stone's colour and clarity. This treatment is widely accepted within the jewellery industry, but it's essential to work with a reputable jeweller who discloses any treatments and provides documentation.
6. Durability and Care - Emeralds have a rating of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale of hardness, which means they are softer and more prone to chipping or cracking than diamonds. To protect your emerald engagement ring, remove it before engaging in any activities that could expose it to hard knocks or extreme temperatures. Clean your emerald gently with a soft brush and warm, soapy water, and have it professionally checked and oiled every few years to maintain its beauty.

Choosing an emerald centre stone for your engagement ring is a bold and unique choice that reflects your individual style and values. By understanding the factors that affect an emerald's quality and working with a trusted jeweller, you can select a stunning gemstone that will symbolise your love and commitment for years to come.

If you're ready to start your journey towards your perfect emerald engagement ring, we invite you to explore our bespoke design services. Antonia will work closely with you to create a one-of-a-kind ring that showcases the beauty of your chosen emerald and reflects your unique love story. Follow us on Instagram for more inspiration and insights into the world of emerald engagement rings.