An Introduction To Emeralds and Rubies For Beginners

Often when people think of gemstones, the first thing that comes to mind are diamonds and sapphires. However, emeralds and rubies are also precious gemstones that are equally as beautiful, unique and valuable. So, if you are considering adding to your jewellery collection, then these beauties should definitely be an option!

Understanding The Four Main Precious Stones | Beldiamond

An Introduction To Emeralds

Emeralds are a gemstone defined by its striking green colour that ranges from a distinctive green to bluish green and also to slightly yellow green. The true green colour is the most valuable. Emeralds score 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs Scale of Hardness, making it slightly less durable than other different types of gemstones like diamonds or sapphires, but still a very good option when it comes to hardness.

In 2018, the famous Rockefeller Emerald sold for $5,511,500. The gemstone was originally set in a brooch that John D.Rockefeller Jr. purchased for his wife. With a mesmerising colour and unparalleled clarity, it is hardly surprising that this gemstone is still so highly sought after. This price is the equivalent of $305,500 per carat, which is the highest ever obtained for an emerald. From this point, emeralds became particularly popular, hence they regularly feature in vintage engagement rings.

Emeralds have been cherished for centuries alongside many different types of gemstones, as they represent protection, love and wisdom. In Ancient Greece and Rome, emeralds were thought to represent the Goddess Venus, meaning they were strong symbols of hope and love. Emeralds have increased in value as natural emeralds become increasingly rare, making them a worthwhile investment for you and future generations to come.

An Introduction To Rubies

Rubies are recognisable by their deep red colour and their link to good fortune. Rubies have strong ties to love, passion and happiness, as well as giving courage to the wearer. The mystic properties make this gemstone highly desirable and also very rare. The highest quality rubies are exceptionally rare particularly. Along with diamonds, emeralds and rubies, these four are the most valuable in the world.

On the Mohs Scale of Hardness, rubies score a 9, again giving this gemstone an excellent toughness compared to other more delicate different types of gemstones. Elizabeth Taylor was especially fond of ruby jewellery, with her famous diamond and ruby necklaces and rings bringing this stunning gemstone more towards the mainstream. The most expensive ruby ever sold is the Sunrise Ruby, mined in Burma. It sold for $30.4 million in 2015, breaking two world records. Aside from coloured diamonds, this was the most expensive coloured gemstone ever sold and also the most expensive price per carat ever sold.

Final Thoughts

Ruby’s are breathtakingly beautiful and make a unique yet exceptional choice for engagement rings. Consider investing in vintage jewellery if you do decide on emeralds or rubies, as there are some stunning pieces that deserve to be cared for properly! Plus, value for money when it comes to vintage jewellery is exceptional, so this is definitely the best way forward.