emerald

1 of 2

noun

em·​er·​ald ˈe-mə-rəld 

ˈem-rəld

1

: a rich green variety of beryl prized as a gemstone

2

: any of various green gemstones (such as synthetic corundum or demantoid)

emerald

2 of 2

adjective

: brightly or richly green

Did you know?

Highly valued as gemstones, emeralds are a grass-green variety of beryl. The capacity of emeralds to deflect light and to break white light into its component colors is not high, so cut stones display little brilliancy or fire (flashes of color). The color that gives this gem its value comes from the presence of small amounts of chromium. The most important production of fine-quality gem material is Colombia; emeralds are also mined in Russia, Australia, South Africa, and Zimbabwe. Synthetic emeralds are identical to natural crystals and may rival them in color and beauty.

Examples of emerald in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

This year, Thailand was even named Travel + Leisure's destination of the year for 2025 thanks to its breathtaking beaches with emerald water and pristine white sand, creative hub in the capital city of Bangkok, and buzzy food and hotel scene. —Michael Cappetta, Travel + Leisure, 15 Dec. 2025

The Paris public prosecutor, Laure Beccau, has said investigators have not given up on recovering the jewels, which include diamond and pearl tiaras, emerald and sapphire necklaces, and other items from a collection of Emperor Napoleon and his wives. —Tom Soufi Burridge, ABC News, 10 Dec. 2025

Adjective

The brooch was presented to the princess as part of a suit of jewels, that also included a brooch featuring a leek motif and a pair of emerald drop earrings, all purchased by a committee of women, the Ladies of North Wales. —Clara Strunck, Glamour, 3 Dec. 2025

Among her accessories, Moore added a touch of sparkle with silver and emerald statement earrings from Gucci’s Labirinti high jewelry collection. —Julia Teti, Footwear News, 12 Nov. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Noun

Middle English emerallde, from Anglo-French esmeralde, from Vulgar Latin *smaralda, from Latin smaragdus, from Greek smaragdos — more at smaragd

First Known Use

Noun

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Adjective

1508, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing emerald

• emerald ash borer
• emerald cut
• emerald green

Kids Definition

emerald

1 of 2 noun

em·​er·​ald ˈem-(ə-)rəld 

: a rich green gem

emerald

2 of 2 adjective

: brightly or richly green