Monday

Jewelry for Saint Patrick’s Day

Judith Ripka Green Quartz and Diamond Earrings

Rough Diamond and Malachite Green Bracelet

When selecting jewelry to honor Saint Patrick’s day, we remember that Ireland is known as the Emerald Isle.   Emeralds are one of the most gorgeous gemstones; the vivid, deep green color is striking and reminiscent of the corresponding brilliant green of the Irish hillsides.  When selecting jewelry for the holiday, the emerald is the first gemstone to come to mind but, because of its rarity and beauty, natural emeralds are often very pricey. There are many other gemstones that occur naturally in shades of green; including peridot, lime quartz, green amethyst, jade, and olive quartz.  These gemstones differ in their rarity and value and are wonderful alternatives when looking to purchase green gemstone jewelry.  The shade of green for some stones however, is not always indicative of Ireland. Perhaps the best representatives of the emerald-esque color are green quartz and malachite.   Both of these stones are considered to be semi-precious and are generally very affordable.  Another option is selecting created emeralds.  These man-made versions were formed by giving Mother Nature an assist in the emerald creating process and are less expensive than the natural version.  So, wear the green, it not only provides a splash of cheerful color, it’s lucky.