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EMERALD JEWELLERY GUIDE

Emeralds are some of the most captivating gemstones, admired for their lush green colour and rich symbolism. Whether chosen for an engagement ring, given as an anniversary gift, or collected as part of an antique jewellery collection, emeralds have always been associated with love, renewal, and timeless elegance.

emerald and diamond antique necklace

THE HISTORY OF EMERALDS

Emeralds have been treasured for thousands of years, famously adored by Cleopatra in ancient Egypt. In the Victorian era, emeralds were often set in sentimental cluster rings and ornate gold pieces. The Edwardian period highlighted emeralds in delicate platinum and diamond settings, while the bold lines of the Art Deco era showcased step-cut emeralds in striking geometric designs.

 

THE MEANING OF EMERALDS

Emeralds symbolise growth, renewal, and enduring love. They are the birthstone for May and are traditionally given to celebrate the 20th and 35th wedding anniversaries, making them a popular choice for romantic and meaningful gifts.

EMERALDS IN ANTIQUE AND VINTAGE JEWELLERY

  • Victorian: Emerald and diamond cluster rings with floral motifs.

  • Edwardian: Platinum filigree designs pairing emeralds with old-cut diamonds.

  • Art Deco: Emerald step-cuts and calibre-cut stones set in bold, geometric designs.

  • Mid-century: Three-stone emerald and diamond rings symbolising past, present, and future.

CARING FOR YOUR EMERALD JEWELLERY

Emeralds are softer than sapphires or diamonds (7.5–8 on the Mohs scale) and often have natural inclusions known as “jardin.”

  • Clean gently with lukewarm water and a soft cloth.

  • Avoid ultrasonic or steam cleaners.

  • Store separately to prevent scratches and protect their delicate structure.

From Victorian emerald clusters to bold Art Deco statement pieces, emeralds are timeless gemstones that carry beauty, romance, and meaning across generations.

EXPLORE ALL GEMSTONE GUIDES...

diamond marquise vintage ring

DIAMOND 

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emerald and diamond necklace

EMERALD

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PEARL 

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PERIDOT

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AQUAMARINE

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antique ruby solitaire ring

RUBY

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AMETHYST

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garnet and diamond gold vintage ring

GARNET

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citrine and seed pearl antique 18ct gold ring

CITRINE

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tanzanite silver vintage cluster ring

TANZANITE

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sapphire and diamond antique ring

SAPPHIRE 

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fiery opal and emerald vintage ring

OPAL

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topaz vintage necklace

TOPAZ

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rolled gold and pink paste stone art nouveau antique necklace

PASTE

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ballerina moissanite silver vintage ring

MOISSANITE DIAMOND

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EXPLORE THE ERAS...

tudor house

Photo by david Griffiths on Unsplash

Just as every gemstone carries meaning, every era tells its own story of style, symbolism, and craftsmanship. Our Eras Guides explore the history of antique and vintage jewellery eras from the romantic detailing of the Victorian period to the bold lines of Art Deco design and beyond. Discover how each era shaped engagement rings, wedding jewellery, and timeless gifts that continue to inspire today. Explore the Eras Guides...

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