There’s something almost hypnotic about emeralds that deep, glowing green that feels alive.
It doesn’t flash like a diamond; it glows, softly and endlessly. Emeralds aren’t just beautiful: they’re expressive, a little wild, and full of stories. And to me, that’s what makes them true heirloom material.
The Blueprint Signet Emerald with Pave Diamonds Ring
Where Do Emeralds Come From?
Emeralds belong to the beryl family, alongside aquamarine and morganite, but what sets them apart is their unmistakable green - coloured by traces of chromium and vanadium. The deeper the saturation, the rarer the stone.
Historically, Colombia has always been emerald royalty. The Muzo, Chivor, and Coscuez mines have produced gems with a rich, velvety hue that collectors treasure. Today, Zambia is also celebrated for its vibrant yet slightly bluish-green stones, often with fewer inclusions and more ethical sourcing practices.
You can also find emeralds in Brazil, Ethiopia, and Pakistan: each origin giving its gems a subtle personality. To me, that’s what makes emeralds special: no two ever tell the same story.
What Makes Emeralds So Unique?
Unlike diamonds, emeralds wear their hearts on their sleeves. Their internal patterns called jardin, French for “garden” are natural inclusions that give each stone character. I always say, those tiny imperfections are the gem’s fingerprint, not flaws.
Emeralds sit 8 on the Mohs scale, meaning they’re durable yet deserve gentle care. Most high-quality emeralds are oil-treated (often with cedarwood oil) to enhance clarity. It’s a completely accepted practice in fine jewellery but one that should always be disclosed.
Buying tip from Kimjoux: When choosing your emerald, always ask about its oil treatment level. It’s part of knowing your gem’s story and how to love it properly.
Fun Facts You Might Not Know
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The earliest emerald mines date back to ancient Egypt, around 330 BC, and Cleopatra’s love for them was legendary.
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Emeralds were believed to bring truth, foresight, and calm, protecting their wearers from deceit and distraction.
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The Mogul Mughal Emerald, weighing 217.8 carats, remains one of history’s most fascinating gems engraved with sacred prayers and floral motifs.
Emeralds have always symbolised clarity, honesty, and balance - values that resonate deeply with how I design at Kimjoux: intentional, personal, and meaningful.
How to Style Emeralds
Emeralds are statement-makers that effortlessly bridge timelessness and modernity. They’re bold, yet somehow never overdone, it’s all about how you wear them.
For the minimalist:
The Blueprint Signet Emerald with Pave Diamonds Ring in Signature Collections. It's bold, sculptural, and unapologetically luxe, our signet ring is a power move in green. The emerald takes centre stage, while pavé diamonds play a quiet supporting role.
For the layering lover:
Stack your emerald with other coloured gemstones: tourmaline, spinel, or diamond. Mix textures, shapes, and hues for that playful yet polished Kimjoux look.
For timeless glamour:
Our Bespoke Pendant featuring a pear-shaped emerald with a removable diamond jacket transforms with your mood understated by day, dazzling by night. It’s the kind of versatility I love designing for.
Caring for Emeralds
I believe heirlooms are meant to last and that means knowing how to care for them properly. Emeralds may be strong, but they like a little tenderness.
To clean:
Rinse thoroughly and pat dry with a lint-free cloth.
Avoid:
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Ultrasonic or steam cleaners (they can affect the gem’s oil treatment)
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Sudden temperature changes
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Wearing during heavy activity or exposure to harsh chemicals
Storage tip:
Keep your emerald jewellery in a soft pouch or individual compartment to avoid scratches from harder stones like diamonds.
Pro tip: The natural oils treatment in emeralds can dry over time. If that happens, please come visit us to reapply treatment to restore its glow another reason to work with experienced jewellers who truly understand their stones.
Why Our Clients Keep Coming Back to Emeralds
You know what we love about emeralds? They’re never perfect and that’s exactly what makes them beautiful. Each one has its own little quirks and stories, and somehow, it always finds the person it’s meant to belong to.
We don’t just design with emeralds, we design around them: their character, their energy, their glow. I always say, a good emerald doesn’t just sparkle; it connects.
So tell me would you wear your emerald solo, let it speak quietly on its own, or mix it with other gems for a little extra flair?
Let’s turn that thought into your next heirloom and speak to me to begin your bespoke emerald journey.
