White gold ring with emerald and diamonds 18 krt>Vintage Jewellery New

A vibrant green heart-shaped emerald is set in an 18-carat white gold frame and surrounded by 0.66 carats of round brilliant-cut diamonds. Emeralds are among the most valuable gemstones, sometimes even more sought-after and

valued than rubies, sapphires and even diamonds.

Emeralds were first discovered more than 3,000 years ago in ancient Egypt, where the infamous emerald mines were mined by Egyptians, Greeks and Romans. Known as “The Jewel of Kings,” emeralds have a rich association with royalty; Cleopatra, for example, was known to wear emeralds not only to accentuate her beauty, but also as a clever expression of Egypt’s wealth. The ancient scholar Pliny praised the emerald, describing its vibrant green colour as representing a beautiful and hopeful spring.

Emeralds are often famous for their “jardin,” a French term meaning “garden,” composed of inclusions that give each emerald a unique look. Although emerald has an 8 on the Mohs hardness scale, the stone’s composition and inclusions require care when worn.

Emerald is the birthstone for the month of May and the gift for 20th and 35th wedding anniversaries, but we think this ring is perfect for any occasion, or even as a special gift for yourself.