The Emerald or the Panna is a green colored stone with incredible beauty and elegance. The vibrant green color of the stone can have a hypnotizing effect on any onlooker. In astrology, a natural Emerald gemstone is associated with the powers of the Mercury, a planet that is associated with communication, trade, commerce, accountancy, banking, networking, mobile technology, and computer technology.
When Mercury is placed strongly in the natal chart, it can help a person to become a writer, news reporter, astrologer, mathematician, PR and media professional, lawyer, chartered accountant, broker, dealer, business owner, sculptor, artist or a salesperson. Wearing an emerald can also have the same kind of effect.
Many people tend to go for cheaper quality emerald stones instead of actually buying a substitute, thinking that they can at least benefit from the positive aspects of an authentic emerald. The truth is that when an emerald stone is cut down into a smaller version, it also compromises the positive energies of the emerald.
The metaphysical, spiritual and physical properties of emerald are what give them their brilliance and leads to a great price. However, when the stone is cut it eventually leads to the loss of such qualities. In such cases, it is better to go for a substitute of the emerald stone. Let’s see what are alternatives of real emerald gemstone
Peridot
The Peridot is a bright gemstone that is often used as a substitute for emerald. It belongs to the Olivine mineral family, which is made of magnesium rich silicate components. Peridot is mainly found in the rich deposits of peridotite xenoliths found in the volcanic lava and the mantle of the earth.
Some of the best peridot stones are found in Australia, Nevada, Egypt, Hawaii, Myanmar, China, Tanzania, and Pakistan. It has a hardness of around 6.5 to 7 on Moh’s scale. Since it comes at a much more affordable price when compared to emerald, plenty of people who yearn to have an emerald, but have financial constraints prefer to go with this stone.
Green Tourmaline
The Tourmaline stone gets its name from ‘Thuramali’, a Sinhalese word. It is a type of semi-precious gemstone that is made out of crystalline boron silicate. Tourmaline gemstones are available in a wide range of colors such as violet, black, pink, brown and green.
Among them, the green Tourmaline stone can be used as a substitute of emerald. It has a hardness of about 7 to 7.5 on Moh’s scale. Tourmaline stones are mined from granite pegmatite, granite as well as metamorphic rocks. Since Green Tourmaline is regarded as semi-precious gemstones, they do not cost as high as emeralds but provide people with similar benefits.
When you are looking for an emerald stone online, it is important that you also ask about the substitutes of emerald in case you find their prices too high for you. The online store should be able to provide you with many excellent pieces of green tourmaline and peridot stones that you can choose from. You should also ask your astrologer to guide you when you are looking to buy an emerald substitute.
Green Glass
One of the most budget-friendly alternatives to real emerald gemstones is green glass. Crafted to mimic the color and appearance of emeralds, green glass gemstones are often used in costume jewelry and fashion accessories. While they lack the durability and intrinsic value of genuine emeralds, green glass pieces can offer an affordable way to incorporate the captivating green hue into your jewelry collection.
Green Cubic Zirconia
Cubic zirconia, a synthetic gemstone, has gained popularity as an alternative to various precious stones, including emeralds. Green cubic zirconia closely resembles the color of real emeralds and is more affordable, making it an attractive option for those on a budget. However, it’s important to note that cubic zirconia lacks the rarity and authenticity associated with natural gemstones.
Synthetic Emeralds
Advancements in gemstone synthesis have led to the creation of lab-grown or synthetic emeralds. These gemstones share the same physical, chemical, and optical properties as natural emeralds but are produced in controlled environments. Synthetic emeralds offer an ethical and more affordable option for those seeking the beauty of emeralds without the environmental concerns associated with mining.
Green Sapphires
Sapphires, typically associated with blue hues, also come in green variations. Green sapphires can be a unique and durable alternative to real emeralds. While they may not perfectly replicate the vivid green color of emeralds, green sapphires offer a beautiful and durable option for those looking for a distinctive gemstone.
Tsavorite Garnet
Tsavorite garnet, a green variety of garnet, is another intriguing alternative to real emeralds. Known for its brilliance and vibrant green color, tsavorite garnet is often used in fine jewelry. While it doesn’t have the same depth of color as emeralds, tsavorite garnet can be a more affordable and equally captivating option.
Chrome Diopside
Chrome diopside is a green gemstone with a deep, forest-green color. Mined primarily in Russia, chrome diopside can be a cost-effective alternative to emeralds. However, it is important to note that chrome diopside may be less durable compared to emeralds, and care should be taken to prevent scratches and damage.
While real emerald gemstones hold a special place in the world of jewelry, alternatives offer an array of options for those seeking the allure of green gemstones without the high price tag. Each alternative comes with its own set of characteristics, benefits, and considerations, allowing individuals to make informed choices based on their preferences and budget. Whether opting for synthetic emeralds, green sapphires, or tsavorite garnets, the world of gemstones provides a wealth of options for creating stunning and affordable jewelry pieces. Ultimately, the choice between real emeralds and their alternatives depends on individual tastes, values, and the desired balance between authenticity and affordability.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why consider alternatives to real emerald gemstones ?
Real emeralds can be expensive and rare. Alternatives provide cost-effective options that mimic the beauty of emeralds, making it more accessible to a wider audience.
- What are the most affordable alternatives to real emerald gemstones ?
Green glass and cubic zirconia are among the most budget-friendly alternatives. They mimic the appearance of emeralds without the high price tag.
- Are synthetic emeralds considered ‘real’ emeralds ?
Synthetic emeralds have the same physical and chemical properties as natural emeralds but are created in a laboratory. While they are real in terms of composition, they lack the rarity of naturally occurring gemstones.
- Are there ethical concerns with synthetic emeralds ?
Synthetic emeralds can be considered more ethical than their natural counterparts as they are produced in controlled environments, eliminating issues related to mining practices.
- How does peridot compare to emeralds in terms of color and cost ?
Peridot has an olive-green color, different from the intense green of emeralds. It is more affordable and provides a distinct option for those looking for green gemstones.
- Which alternative is the closest to the natural emerald’s appearance ?
Synthetic emeralds come closest to replicating the appearance of natural emeralds since they share the same chemical and physical properties. However, the choice ultimately depends on individual preferences and budget considerations.
- What precautions should be taken with chrome diopside as an alternative ?
Chrome diopside is softer than emeralds, so care should be taken to avoid scratches and damage. It is recommended to handle and store chrome diopside jewelry with attention.