Are Emeralds Hard to Take Care Of?

Emeralds, with their captivating green hue, have been cherished for centuries. Set in jewelry, they've stood the test of time. But are they hard to care for? The answer lies in understanding their hardness and stability.

Emeralds rank between 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs hardness scale. While this makes them relatively hard, they require more care than gems like ruby or sapphire. The Mohs scale is based on how easily a mineral can be scratched by another. However, the steps between the minerals aren't evenly spaced. For instance, a diamond, which is the hardest known mineral, is only one step away from corundum gems but is significantly harder.

Emeralds have fair to good toughness. This means they can last for generations with the right care. However, they are susceptible to damage from heat, which can extend existing fractures. Chemicals and light can also affect the oils and resins used to fill surface-reaching fractures in emeralds, altering their appearance or causing deterioration.

When it comes to cleaning, it's essential to be gentle. An estimated 90% of emeralds are fracture-filled. Cleaning them with ultrasonic methods or steam can be risky. The safest way to clean emeralds is using warm, soapy water and gentle scrubbing.

For those who own or are considering purchasing emerald jewelry, like earrings or rings, understanding and practicing proper care ensures that these beautiful gems remain a treasured part of your collection for years to come.