GREEN GEMS

There are approximately 32 green gemstones. They vary from precious to semi-precious and come in many shapes and sizes.  Some of the more recognized and popular green gems include emerald, tourmaline, jade, and peridot.  Green is not, however, limited to just the most well-known.  In nature, the green in gems is caused by the elements chromium, vanadium, or iron. Chromium is the sixth most abundant element in the earth’s crust. Green lovers read on!

Jade is the toughest of all the green gems which means it is hard and resistant to breaking. You will usually find jade in beads or cabochon cut stones.  A green diamond is one of the most durable and sparkly but a natural green diamond may be cost-prohibitive.  

Green gems actually hit a lot of birth months.  The most well-known are emeralds for May and peridot for August.  However, January’s garnet gem comes in two green varieties, Tsavorite and Demantoid. February’s Amethyst is a variety of the quartz family and green quartz (sometimes referred to as green amethyst) is a lovely pastel shade of green. April has its green diamond.  June’s birthstone pearl can often be found in dyed versions of green and of course, the phenomenal Alexandrite changes its color from a purplish to a greenish depending on the light source. September’s sapphire comes in many colors including green, and October’s tourmaline is available in green as well as pink.  November’s traditional birthstone, topaz, is available in green and December’s original birthstone Turquoise has a green variety.  

To find the green gem that is best for you visit your local independent jeweler with a knowledgeable staff and they can guide you.