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| Emerald : The Symbol Of Spring |
May’s birthstone prized for its lush
green hues and rare beauty, emerald traditionally is the gift of choice
for couples celebrating their 20th and 25th wedding anniversaries.
Among many of its sources the world over, Columbia and Russia are
famous for their finest quality emeralds, Brazil being known as the
largest producer of it in a wide range of quality.
Emerald, coming in a variety of light and dark shades of green, often
with subtle yellow, blue, brown and gray background hues, is generally
more valuable for its purer and richer green color.
Although relatively hard (7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale), it can still
be scratched, chipped or split fairly easily, most having flaws or
inclusions which weaken their structure.
Flawless emeralds, because they are exceptionally rare, command greater prices, even higher than
diamond in some instances.
Among size, color, clarity and weight, by which the gem is judged,
color is extremely important as it again breaks down into hue, tone
and saturation.
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Lesser degree of clarity, however, may be acceptable,
considering the stone’s special tendency for having inclusions.
Fissures or cracks, common as they are in emerald, are to be avoided
if too deep.
With marketed emeralds today, usually treated in some way for removal
of surface flaws and enhancement of color, the use of ultrasonic cleaners
and exposure to extreme temperatures are to be avoided in caring for
them.
We should simply use a soft, damp piece of cloth and warm water, and
a soft bristle brush, if needed. |
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