Emerald
Emerald is the birthstone of May, with its bold, bright green, a dazzling reminder of the coming of Spring.
A stone prized for its beauty and rarity, many ancient empires have been known to revere the Emerald. In ancient India it was named marakata (the green growing), and Cleopatra’s love of Emeralds is well known - the ancient Egyptians believing Emeralds to be the source of eternal life. Ancient Greeks considered it to be the stone of the goddess Venus, symbolic of truth and love. The stone is still associated with these virtues today, which is why it is often used in engagement and promise rings to remind of deep, mature love.
How to style Emerald:
We think that Emerald is best worn as a necklace, and our new Emerald Flower pendant with its seven gemstone petals makes a glittering statement that reflects the joy of nature. We also love the classic Hepburn necklace, which comes in both silver and gold to match the wearers taste. Emerald is such a complementary stone, inspiring confidence and compassion when worn - which is why we love it!
The origins of Emerald:
Emeralds are most commonly mined in Columbia, though they exist in small deposits across the world. They are much rarer than other green stones, because the minerals (beryllium, chromium and vanadium) combine to form a glowing green hue are very rarely found in the same conditions, at the same time.
Peridot
The official August birthstone, Peridot has traditionally been considered to wield protection against fear and particularly nightmares. Wearing Peridot jewellery is thought to inspire compassion, creativity and eloquence, making it the perfect occasional gemstone.
How to style Peridot:
We adore Peridot earrings, as they are effortless to style and make great transitional statements across all seasons. The Lolita earrings give the green plenty of gold and are versatile stand out pieces, but our classic teardrop earrings are charming for everyday wear, especially when matched with the Zaza Peridot necklace.
The origins of Peridot:
Formed in the basalt-rich lava of the Earth’s mantle, Peridot is a gemstone committed to its olive green hue. Created from the mineral Olivine, the depth of Peridots colour depends on the amount of iron present in its crystalline structure - the darker the hue, the more iron present.
The majority of Peridot today is mined in Arizona, but it is found across continents from the USA to the Middle East, and most notably has arrived from space in meteorites! The Ancient Egyptians insightfully referred to Peridot as ‘the Gem of the Sun’, and used it to carve protective talismans which were often buried with their Pharaohs.
Green Onyx
Green Onyx is considered the stone of expression, inspiring confidence and helping to face anxious thoughts. It has also traditionally represented abundance, growth and wealth - possibly due to being commonly mistaken as Emerald in times gone by.
How to style Green Onyx:
Our absolute favourite way to style Green Onyx is with our Cascade and Waterfall earrings, both of which exude regality, and would look stunning with a statement dress or occasional outfit. However, if you prefer a more subtle look, the Dew drops are equally tasteful as they retain their emerald green glow while sitting comfortably close to the lobe of the ear.
The origins of Green Onyx:
Microscopic crystalline layers of Chalcedony and Quartz come together to form the attractive Green Onyx, which is most commonly found in Brazil, India, Peru, Mexico and Madagascar.