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Emeralds have always fascinated me, from their alluring green hue to their rich symbolism. But as someone who loves subtle and elegant jewelry, I think that stud earrings are one of the most underrated ways to wear the birthstone for May. And as someone who values high-quality and ethically-sourced gemstones, Brilliant Earth and Angara are my favorite places to shop.
This guide will showcase my favorite emerald stud earrings so you can wear a touch of mystical green with formal and casual outfits. My ideas range from classic and simple to vintage and nature-inspired. Here are my favorite emerald stud earrings from Brilliant Earth and Angara– and why I love them as much as I do.
Emerald Stud Earrings – Bottom Line Up Front:
Emerald stud earrings from Brilliant Earth are simply hard to go wrong with. Sustainably sourced, gorgeous, and crafted with quality, these earrings truly showcase the beautiful May birthstone. If I had to recommend just one pair of emerald stud earrings from Brilliant Earth, it would be these Solitaire Emerald Stud Earrings. Not only are they gorgeous, but these stud earrings are instant classics, with a versatile design suited for casual and formal outfits alike. I also love that they’re available in both genuine gold and platinum, so you can find a style and price point that works for you.
These striking earrings feature deeply hued emeralds secured in classic four-prong basket settings with comfortable push back posts for pierced ears.
My Emerald Stud Earring Top Picks
- Solitaire Emerald Stud Earrings: Best Classic Solitaire Earrings
- Magnolia Emerald Earrings: Best Nostalgic Stud Earrings
- North Star Emerald Earrings: Best Silver Stud Earrings
- Foliage Bouquet Earrings: Best Floral-Inspired Stud Earrings
- Petal Lab Emerald and Diamond Earrings: Best Vintage-Inspired Stud Earrings
- Emerald Halo Diamond Earrings: Best Halo Stud Earrings
- Trilogy Emerald Stud Earrings: Best Bluish-Green Stud Earrings
- Mirasol Emerald and Diamond Earrings: Best Art Nouveau-inspired Stud Earrings
- Claw-Set Solitaire Stud Earrings: Best Oval Stud Earrings
- Emerald Solitaire Heart Stud Earrings: Best Heart-Shaped Earrings
- Double Claw-Set Trillion Emerald Stud Earrings: Best Trillion-Cut Emerald Earrings
My Selection Criteria
I wanted to find the most gorgeous emerald stud earrings for a few reasons. Let’s face it: emeralds aren’t cheap. So finding a balance between quality, style and value was important to me. Luckily, by looking at Brilliant Earth and Angara, it was easy to find dazzling emerald stud earrings that met my high standards.
Genuine Emerald Gemstones
First, I only ever would recommend buying genuine gemstones– unless it’s a gag gift or for a younger kid. The reason: emerald simulants lack the brilliance, saturation, durability, and value of simulants. All of these emerald stud earrings include only lab-grown or natural emeralds. Lab-grown emeralds are less valuable (and more affordable), but share the same physical properties as natural emeralds. Thus, they both have a Mohs hardness rating of 7.5 to 8 and are resistant to scratches.
Quality Sourcing
The other reason why Brilliant Earth and Angara are two of my favorite places to buy emerald stud earrings is that all of their gemstones are both real and conflict-free. Here’s the scoop: Brilliant Earth and Angara carry lab-grown and natural gemstones. While a lot of their jewelry is lab-grown, it’s cheaper than natural gemstones and certified beyond conflict-free. Not only that but all of their gemstones are sourced sustainably. It’s a big step above many jewelers, especially those online.
Versatile but Unique Style
All of these emerald stud earrings are at once versatile and crafted with unique elegance. I selected emerald stud earrings that are designed in a way that they can be worn comfortably from the day to the evening. I also selected a range of styles– from sleek and modern to vintage-inspired for a boho or Art Deco touch.
Quality Materials
All of these gorgeous emerald stud earrings are crafted with care- and you can see that in myriad ways. First, there’s the quality of the craftsmanship for both the perimeter and for the cut of the emeralds. Whether round or pear-cut, every emerald is cut by an expert jeweler to optimize brilliance and hue. Only precious, premium metals are used, ranging from 14K to 18K gold to platinum and 925 sterling silver. These metals provide gorgeous luster and are acceptable for daily wear, with proper care. And of course, the emeralds themselves are of reputable quality, with only very slight to slight inclusions.
My Favorite Styles
Here are my favorite ideas for gorgeous emerald stud earrings from Brilliant Earth and Angara. Every pair of earrings features the refined craftsmanship Brilliant Earth and Angara are known for. If you love emerald earrings, chances are you’ll fall for one of these.
Solitaire Emerald Stud Earrings
If you’re going to buy just one pair of emerald stud earrings, this style is the way to go. These solitaire emerald stud earrings are at once versatile and timeless. I could see them being worn with something as simple as a pair of jeans or as glam as a cocktail dress. That timeless style is achieved with a four-prong setting. Vibrant medium green, round emeralds look exceptional with 18K yellow gold backs, though you can also opt for white gold or platinum. Even better, the pushbacks are designed for comfort. If I am going to wear any jewelry all day, especially with my sensitive skin, this is a huge advantage. The overall effect is a modern take on a classic look– making these emerald earrings perfect for wearing any day of the week. Buy Here.
These striking earrings feature deeply hued emeralds secured in classic four-prong basket settings with comfortable push back posts for pierced ears.
Pros
- Timeless and versatile style
- Comfortable push backings
- Showcases beauty of emeralds
Cons
- Fairly Plain
- Modest Carat Weight
Magnolia Emerald Stud Earrings
Nobility, connection with nature, and endurance: are a few of the many symbols associated with magnolias. My connection to magnolias is perhaps all that special. I remember watching Steel Magnolias with my mother, a movie we both cried over and that has stayed with me. Whatever it means for you, there’s no doubt there’s an effortless beauty to these magnolia emerald stud earrings from Brilliant Earth. Tiny, vivid green round emeralds are situated inside overlapping floral petals. Each petal is carefully sculpted, and I love that the luster from the gold catches the sunlight. There’s a mix of old-world and modern allure with these elegant and striking stud earrings. Buy Here.
Glimmering emeralds rest at the center of each arrangement of sculpted petals in these beautiful floral earrings.
Pros
- Sculpted design for a multi-dimensional look
- Meaningful symbolism
- Elegant allure
Cons
- Tiny center emeralds
- Only available in 14K yellow or white gold
North Star Emerald Stud Earrings
One symbol that feels nearly universal to me is the North Star, so I know I’m not alone in loving this design. The North Star is a beacon of hope for so many, steeped in culture, history, and speaking for generations. What I love about these earrings is that they carry the symbol of hope forward, with a design that’s at once innovative, artistic, and inspiring. Just as the North Star means many things to many people, these stud earrings can be viewed differently from different angles. The silver stars are sculpted at multiple angles, with sleek 925 sterling silver. The uniquely shaped central emeralds are a deeper green, providing a dreamy contract. Buy Here.
Shining with the constant brightness of the North Star, these eye-catching earrings feature a sparkling emerald at the center of each twinkling silver star.
Pros
- Iconic North Star symbolism
- Sculpted from multiple angles
- Beautiful contrast
Cons
- Sterling silver can tarnish
- Slightly lower reviews – 4 vs 5 average
Foliage Bouquet Emerald Stud Earrings
There’s something to be said for versatile earrings that also double as statement earrings. These glamorous earrings fit that bill for me, and I was immediately drawn to them. In many ways, I think these cluster emerald stud earrings showcase what Brilliant Earth does best. They are luxurious without being overdone. They are modern with touches of Art Deco. And they are enchanting in a subtle way. The cluster style features dazzling accent diamonds, paired with pops of vivid green emeralds. The alternating design makes for an elegant and striking contrast. At the same time, the simple prong settings keep things timeless and classic. These emerald earrings are a beautiful option if you love a nod to nature designs but don’t want a direct depiction of floral petals. Buy Here.
A glittering cluster of diamonds and lab emeralds form a sophisticated and floral look in this glamorous design, creating the perfect elevated stud earrings.
Pros
- Gorgeous alternating diamond accents
- Classic prong setting
- Artistic but modern
Cons
- Only available in 14K yellow gold
- Diamonds have slight inclusions
Petal Emerald and Diamond Stud Earrings
If you want vintage-inspired emerald earrings, I love these. First of all, they explore the beauty of the often underrated marquise cut. The marquise cut can be traced as far back as the 18th century, under the French court of King Louis XV. The best way to think of this elongated cut is as a modification on a round brilliant cut. The shape is not unique, but also provides an illusion of larger stones. These beautiful emerald stones form four petals for a floral motif, flanked by accent diamonds for shimmer and sparkle. The icy 18k white gold adds the perfect cool accent to the deep green emerald gemstones. Buy Here.
Breathtaking lab created marquise cut emeralds and sparkling diamonds form a floral design in these beautiful studs, which possess both an elegant symmetry and a feminine glamour.
Pros
- Vintage-Inspired
- Sparkling diamond accents
- Beautiful 18K white gold
Cons
- Only available in white gold
- Slight inclusions for accent diamonds
Emerald and Diamond Halo Emerald Stud Earrings
Do you want glamor? I know that stud earrings are so often seen as a more modest, understated accessory. But these emerald and diamond stud earrings from Brilliant Earth are hard not to notice. When I’m looking to make a bigger statement, the halo style is simply a gorgeous idea. I could see these earrings worn to embellish a formal outfit that’s fairly plain, like a little silver or black dress. Another thing I love is the paler green hue to the emeralds— it reminds me a bit of the sea or an Irish countryside under fog. A halo of pavé-set diamonds adorn the emeralds and make them pop. But what finally sold me on these stud earrings is that they are designed to fit comfortably as possible in the middle of your earlobe. The icy 18K white gold provides luster and pairs beautifully with the accent diamonds. Buy Here.
These stunning earrings feature vivid green emerald centers surrounded by an elegant halo of pavé-set diamonds. The martini setting allows the earring to sit flush with the ear for maximum comfort.
Pros
- Dazzling halo design
- Comfort fit
- The beautiful light green hue
Cons
- Expensive
- Only available in 18K white gold
Trilogy Emerald Stud Earrings
Ever since Kindergarten, I’ve been fond of St. Patrick’s day, and clover motifs. It started when my teacher instructed my class to create dioramas. We left them in the classroom and found, the next day, that a ‘leprechaun’ had ‘left footprints behind.’ I have mostly Scottish, but also dashes of Irish heritage– so that is likely another part of the draw. But though I don’t so much believe in luck, I do see shamrocks and clovers as a token of Spring, new beginnings, and hope. I think it’s safe to say that we could all use more of that right now. So even though these may not be the most versatile emerald stud earrings from Brilliant Earth, they are my personal favorites. Three round, springy green emeralds are set in a whimsical trio. The 18k yellow gold backs are the perfect touch for a magical feel. Buy Here.
Three round emeralds are paired together in a chic and powerful trio in these effortless everyday earrings.
Pros
- Symbolic motif
- Simple but whimsical
- Gorgeous vivid greenish-blue
Cons
- Only available in yellow gold
- Slight inclusions
Mirasol Emerald Stud Earrings
I saved these emerald stud earrings last for a reason. Have you ever wanted to make a statement– but not just in a traditional way? Have you wanted jewelry that truly is expressive and artistic- but in a modern, updated way? I love classic, timeless earrings. But I also love innovation, artistic vision, and taking chances. So naturally, I had to finish up my list of favorite Brilliant Earth emerald stud earrings with this design. Displaying a majestic play with geometry, these earrings couple pear-shaped diamonds with medium bluish-green round emeralds. The accent diamonds slowly curl for a spiraling effect. The 18K white gold provides an alluring backdrop for the diamonds. Beautiful and certainly unique, these showcase the innovative side of emerald earrings. Buy Here.
Stunning pear-shaped diamonds encircle a striking emerald in these alluring and captivating earrings.
Pros
- Dazzling accent diamonds
- Unique spiral design
- Beautiful bluish-green emeralds
Cons
- Only available in white gold
- Expensive
Claw-Set Solitaire Emerald Stud Earrings
Angara showcases its gorgeous emerald stud earrings with these claw-set solitaires. I love round cuts, but oval cuts have a unique beauty of their own. The effect is an elongated, elegant style that can be worn from day tonight. While simple at first glance, these solitaire earrings have an undeniably classic elegance. The vivid green emeralds are featured in a claw setting, with your choice of 14K rose, yellow or white gold. They’re sure to become a staple. Buy Here.
Pros
- Elongated Elegance
- Up to Heirloom Quality
- Timeless Design
Cons
- Only 14K Gold
- Expensive
Emerald Solitaire Heart Stud Earrings
It may seem cheesy to some, but I’m seeing more and more heart shapes. At first, I wasn’t sure how I felt about this shape– but paired with a gorgeous emerald gemstone, I see how beautiful and meaningful these earrings can be. The heart motif with the symbolism of emeralds makes for a hopeful, heartfelt accessory. Available in up to Heirloom quality, these vibrant green emerald stud earrings make a statement and would be a unique, romantic gift. They’re crafted in your choice of 14K gold or platinum. Buy Here.
Glowing lush green emeralds are held in a prong setting and look effortlessly elegant. They are cut in a striking heart-shape and epitomize the spirit of true love. These solitaire emerald stud earrings are crafted in 14K white gold.
Pros
- Stunning Quality
- Meaningful Motif
- Generous Carat
Cons
- Expensive
- Not as Versatile
Double Claw-Set Trillion Emerald Stud Earrings
A trillion cut is a unique triangular shape with a relatively flat plane but exquisite brilliance. What I love about these trillion cut emerald stud earrings is that they’re at once fanciful, a little daring, and very alluring. The unique shape showcases the beauty of the medium green emerald gemstones, and even more so in Heirloom quality. The sleek angles catch the light beautifully and pair well with either 14K gold or platinum. They make a unique statement and are stunning without the need for embellishments. Buy Here.
The unique shape and rich green hue of the double claw set trillion emeralds look enchanting. These solitaire emerald stud earrings are crafted in 14k white gold and make an absolute visual treat.
Pros
- Brilliant Trillion Cut
- Artistic and Unique
- Excellent Heirloom Quality
Cons
- No 18K Gold
- Expensive
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: Is Brilliant Earth legit?
Answer: Brilliant Earth is not only legit– it’s one of the best places to buy jewelry online. Brilliant Earth is owned and operated by Beth Gerstein, who is based in San Francisco and previously worked as an associate at Booz Allen. While the IT background may seem less conventional, what I love about Brilliant Earth is that they provide excellent customer service and an integrated shopping experience (as shown by high customer satisfaction and a great rating on Better Business Bureau) all the while teaming up with experts in the jewelry industry. It’s a safe, secure website with simply excellent quality gemstones, diamonds, and jewelry.
Question: Can I wear emerald earrings every day?
Answer: While it’s less common, you really can wear emerald earrings every day or quite often– with a few caveats. Emeralds don’t scratch easily and they shouldn’t react to normal environments. Sadly, they do have a notable cleavage point, so they can break, but, of course, if secured properly, you have a lower chance of earrings breaking vs a ring. Emeralds are fairly durable, but knowing how to take care of them– and when to remove them– is very important.
Question: How do you take care of emeralds?
Answer: Emerald stud earrings can be worn daily, but with care. Even something as simple as a solution of warm water and mild soap effectively cleans earrings- just make sure to dry them off completely. I also think taking your stud earrings in for professional cleaning is an excellent idea once or twice a year, depending on heavily you wear them. There are things you should avoid, too. Any harsh detergents or cleaning agents could damage the emerald studs. I also would remove emerald stud earrings while showering, swimming, playing sports, and sleeping.
Question: How much is a real emerald worth?
Answer: How much your emeralds are worth varies a lot. A natural emerald of excellent quality can cost as much as $100,000 per carat! Still, this is looking at the most flawless, vivid, and rare natural emerald. Natural emeralds average a few hundred dollars per carat, and lab-grown is ⅓ or less of that. Emeralds can be an investment, but it all boils down to sourcing, quality, and rarity. The most valuable color for emeralds is green with blue undertones. Natural emeralds can be more expensive than diamonds, simply because they are so rare. Yet lab-grown emeralds can be just as beautiful.
Emerald Stud Earrings – Final Thoughts
Emeralds are symbols of hope, in countless ways. Many of us, myself included, see emeralds and think about new life, Spring, and personal growth. I see the vivid green hue of emerald and am reminded of lush landscapes, the beauty of the natural world, and the promises of both places unexplored and new beginnings. Emerald stud earrings may have you feel luckier than usual, and there’s no doubt that these styles from Brilliant Earth are truly exquisite. For matter, if you opt for a simple solitaire design or a cluster of emeralds designed into flowers, they may just become your favorite earrings for special occasions yet. Just make sure to buy a design that makes sense for you if you need earrings for sensitive ears.
These striking earrings feature deeply hued emeralds secured in classic four-prong basket settings with comfortable push back posts for pierced ears.
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