Updated as of June 2026
Emerald
Associated with renewal, growth, and the heart. Its lush green has signaled wealth and status across many cultures.
Price range$100 to $4,000/ct
Hardness (Mohs)7.5
ColorsGreen, Bluish green
BirthstoneMay
AltGems Score How we score
6.8/10
Emerald pros and cons
Pros
- Excellent durability (Mohs 7.5) for everyday wear
- Rare and collectible
- A recognized birthstone (May)
Cons
- Commonly treated (oiling or resin filling (very common))
- Premium per-carat cost for fine quality
Emerald is durable enough for engagement rings and daily-wear jewelry of every kind.
Launch offer: 5% off your first necklace with code WELCOME5
Shop Emerald jewelryReady to buy?
- Handmade in the USA
- Made to order
- Ships in 3 to 5 days
- Gift-boxed
- Satisfaction guaranteed
Explore Emerald
Meaning and properties
Symbolism, zodiac, chakraPrice and value
What it costs and whyBuying guide
How to choose and where to buyCare and cleaning
Keep it looking its bestEmerald jewelry
Emerald ringsEmerald engagement ringsEmerald necklacesEmerald pendantsEmerald earringsEmerald bracelets
Emerald by cut
Emerald ring styles
Emerald solitaire ringEmerald halo ringEmerald three stone ringEmerald hidden halo ringEmerald vintage and antique ringEmerald bezel ringAll styles
Emerald by metal
Emerald in yellow goldEmerald in white goldEmerald in rose goldEmerald in platinumEmerald in sterling silver
Common buying mistakes
- Buying on carat weight alone instead of color and cut, which drive beauty more.
- Skipping treatment disclosure, which changes both value and care.
- Overpaying at one retailer without comparing the same color and carat elsewhere.
- Cleaning it the wrong way. More fragile than other gems and usually oil-treated. Clean only with warm soapy water and a soft cloth. Never use ultrasonic or steam cleaners.
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Where to buy Emerald: for fine pieces, choose established jewelers with clear return policies and lab reports; for unique or budget pieces, vetted marketplace sellers work well. Always confirm treatment and the return window before buying. AltGems prices are general per-carat guides, so verify value with a certified gemologist or GIA report.
Frequently asked questions
What is Emerald?
Associated with renewal, growth, and the heart. Its lush green has signaled wealth and status across many cultures. It rates 7.5 on the Mohs hardness scale and commonly appears in green, bluish green.
How much does Emerald cost?
Emerald typically runs about $100 to $4,000 per carat depending on color, clarity, cut, and origin. See our Emerald price guide for detail.
Is Emerald good for everyday jewelry?
It rates 7.5 on the Mohs scale, so it suits earrings, pendants, and occasional-wear rings better than daily rough use.
What is the AltGems Score for Emerald?
Emerald earns an overall AltGems Score of 6.8 out of 10, balancing durability, brilliance, value, rarity, and everyday wearability. See our methodology on the How We Score page.
How do I care for Emerald?
More fragile than other gems and usually oil-treated. Clean only with warm soapy water and a soft cloth. Never use ultrasonic or steam cleaners.