We can all use a little help, encouragement, and inspiration sometimes. Whatever you believe about the healing properties of gemstones, it’s undeniable: Jewelry empowers us. That’s the motivation behind our Gemstone Feature series. By sharing the stories of some of the gemstones gracing our latest Bloom pieces, we celebrate the countless ways jewelry brings positive energy to our lives.

This spring we’re dreaming of Emerald, the May birthstone, which evokes the rich, vibrant greens of springtime that annually emerge as winter gives way to fresh growth and new beginnings. Aren’t you ready for a fresh start for spring? Read on to learn why Emeralds have long been associated with nature, renewal, calm, and well-being – and take a peek at some of our new favorite pieces of Emerald jewelry!

Everything to Know About Emerald!

What Is Emerald? As the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) explains, Emerald is a bluish-green to green variety of the mineral Beryl. The precious gemstone is colored by trace amounts of Chromium and Vanadium. 

Is Emerald considered a “precious” gemstone? In fact yes! Along with Diamond, Ruby, and Sapphire, Emerald rounds out the “Fantastic Four” precious gemstones – which Bloom recently highlighted in this lovely collection. Legend says that God gave Solomon four precious stones, of which Emerald was one. 

How long have Emeralds been around? The oldest-known Emeralds are approximately 2.97 billion years old! GIA reports that the first-known Emerald mines were in Egypt, dating from at least 330 BC.

What is the meaning of Emerald? According to GIA, the word Emerald comes from the ancient Greek word describing a green gem, smaragdos. And while we’d forgive you for not seeing an immediate link (smaragdos → Emerald?), the meaning of Emerald really is all about green. Lush green Ireland is the Emerald Isle. In our world, verdant Seattle is the Emerald City; in Dorothy’s world, magical, green-glowing Oz was the Emerald City. Over time, the meaning of Emerald has become associated with vitality, growth, rebirth, new beginnings, and creativity. 

What are Emerald’s healing properties thought to be? Green is commonly thought to be among the world’s most calming colors, so it’s not surprising that the meaning of Emerald has also come to be associated with calm. GIA shares that ancient Roman scholars believed Emeralds could relieve “weariness and lassitude” — a belief borne out by science, which has shown that the color green DOES relieve stress and eye strain. In common lore, Emeralds are purported to soothe the emotions and promote balance, harmony, and understanding. Breathe in, breathe out, and take a step forward. The Emerald is also thought to support in restoring body and mind, cultivating creativity, and promoting healing. 

Were Emeralds ever thought to be magic? According to GIA, Emeralds were historically thought to have magical powers: “By placing it under the tongue, one could see into the future.” While we do not recommend this practice in the least, we DO believe that gazing upon a gorgeous Emerald could have the power to inspire some very positive visions of renewal and rebirth. 

Can you show me a very famous Emerald? Why the heck not! The one and only Elizabeth Taylor owned a truly incredible Emerald pendant necklace (worth $6.5M in 2011)!

Now in Bloom: Emerald Jewelry for Spring

Bloom Jewelry’s Emerald Collection is here to help you remember that springtime feeling all year round. See all of our gorgeous pieces of Emerald jewelry here, or check out a few of our favorites below.

Our Emerald Bridge Linear Hoops (pictured) bring together rows of Emerald rondelles on linear hoops in your choice of 14k Gold Filled or Sterling Silver. Put together a pretty set with our Emerald & Large Gold Paperclip Layering Necklace. 

This adorable little Emerald Birthstone Charm makes it easy to incorporate Emerald into a favorite charm necklace or bracelet. Whether you’re including Emerald to honor a May birthday or to keep you focused on the calm at the end of the tunnel, Bloom’s revamped Charm Bar makes it super-simple to put together a fantastic set of charms. 

For our favorite everyday Emeralds, check out our Emerald & 14K Gold Filled Filigree Layering Necklace. This Bloom customer favorite layering necklace, which can be worn from 17” to 18”, features a series of delicate Emerald gemstones hand wrapped to the filigree chain. 

Looking for a true knockout of an Emerald? Look no further than our Emerald Pave Diamond Tear Halo Gold Filled Paperclip Toggle Necklace (pictured). The 18.5” Gold Filled necklace features a striking ~1” faceted Emerald — truly a forest all its own! — surrounded by a halo of Pave Diamonds set in oxidized Sterling Silver. Complete the look with our Emerald Stardust Gold Drop Earrings. 

Need help deciding which piece of Emerald jewelry is the just-right choice for you or your loved one? Let us know! We’re happy to jump on a Zoom and model some pieces for you. Just send us a message!