Emerald, to many, symbolizes rebirth and life abundant. The rich green hues bring to mind regeneration of life in spring and hope of new possibilities. Yet, perfection in Emerald, as in all things, is among the most rare of Nature's treasures. When they are mined from the earth, almost all Emeralds have unique birthmarks that distinguish them as truly natural gemstones.

    Early gem merchants in India sought to purify the color of their Emeralds by immersing them in clear oils or paraffin. They found that clear oils and waxes rendered surface fissures nearly invisible to the naked eye. Today, we have many sophisticated technologies with which to clarity enhance Emeralds. In addition to the oils and waxes of ancient method, we now use clear resins to penetrate the open fissures surfacing in the gemstones. "Hardeners" are often added to solidify these liquids. This step prevents the resin from evaporating from the stones, thus making the clarity enhancement more permanent than oiling or waxing the gem. Ask your jeweler for information regarding your Emerald selection and care. To understand the journey your Emerald has traveled from the earth to you is to gain special insight into its magic.