All That’s Green & Glorious
“. . . these verdant hues instantly connect us to nature.”
-Claudia Endler
Here in Southern California we’ve had rainstorm after rainstorm in 2023. The incredible proof of this unusual soaking is breathtaking – all around are lush green hillsides, their soft slopes bursting with wildflowers.
This spring is a potent reminder that in a desert metropolis like Los Angeles, these verdant hues instantly connect us to nature. Simply looking at the green landscape soothes, bringing both wonder and an easy joy.
I adore emeralds for this very reason. May’s birthstone, their juicy greens come in many shades, sparking to life when illuminated. A member of the Beryl family, they are a rare gem, found in just a handful of countries around the world. Ranging from green-yellow to green-blue, the latter is the rarest and most valuable. For centuries, their rich glow has captivated across cultures.
Cleopatra was said to have been obsessed with them. Ancient Egyptians believed that they signified eternal youth and rebirth, and often buried them with their beloveds for adornment in the afterlife (apparently you can take it with you 😝).
One of the most famous emeralds in the world is the Chalk Emerald – a 37.83ct behemoth set by Harry Winston into an outrageous cocktail ring. Its last private owners, Oscar and Claire Chalk, bequeathed the ring in 1972 to National Museum of Natural History in Washington, DC, where it is still on display to this day in the Gem Gallery where all can marvel at it.
Every time I have the chance to work with emeralds, I’m overjoyed. Vibrant, electric, and versatile they bring such drama to even the most restrained modern designs. Perfect for both women’s and men’s jewelry, rings, earrings, necklaces, brooches – you name it – emeralds bring a regal magic to their wearers.
Do you have an emerald vision you’d like to bring to life? Bring me your existing gems for repurposing or let me help you source something stunning for a custom project. I’d love to work with you!
Wishing all you May babes a very happy birthday month!
xoxo
