Although I am not hugely drawn to emeralds (probably a good thing for my bank account, really) these earrings would make a delightful alternative to the perennial diamond studs.
Nam Cho, the designer, has an interesting bio: Nam Cho had early training in classical violin and the fine arts. Her mother, an accomplished painter, designer, and collector, encouraged Nam’s exuberant, creative talent. And, her father, a banking executive, shared his knowledge of international business. Upon graduating from the prestigious Parsons School of Design with two Gold Thimble awards, Nam entered the world of fashion. Nam designed for top American designers Narciso Rodriguez, Richard Tyler, Patrick Robinson, and others and honed her creative skills in ready-to-wear and accessories. But Nam felt a lack of intimacy between fine jewelry and fashion and decided to start her own jewelry company. She had noticed that many impeccably dressed women, with up-to-date knowledge of fashion and clothing, would accessorize with jewelry that did not coordinate in style or quality. Nam would sometimes find herself sketching appropriate jewelry for these women. Nam believes modern fine jewelry must be luxurious, classic, and timeless (and a good investment) but also young, exciting, and fresh. Jewelry should make the wearer feel effortlessly glamorous and beautiful, but also chic, whether she’s in a day suit or an evening gown.
I especially love that she sketched the jewellery women ought to have been wearing.
These earrings are 18k white gold and black rhodium. The stones are .70 carats of diamonds, 2.2o of pave emeralds, and each emerald centre stone (they are heat treated) weighs 1.5 carats apiece. They sell for USD $7,390 at Neiman Marcus.
IntoTemptation.....jewellery musings 
I know Nam, and I’ve seen this pair of earrings personally. They are amazing. Her trademark is taking similar colored center stones (sometimes of a different material) and pairing them side by side. Here, she has used faceted next to cabochon. The results are striking. She always uses at least 18K gold, and her diamond quality is top notch.
When buying emeralds, do not be concerned about heat treatment. It is an age old process, so is oiling. Oil actually helps the stones which are very porous and brittle. The culprits are dyes and polymeric infusion–which are rampant and notorious techniques. Honest vendors will keep you informed.
If you meet Nam, she comes off sometimes very brisk, even a bit cool. She is a city girl. Under that shell is a very very kind and warm heart. I say this openly. I am only an aquaintance who also designs jewelry. Many of the great designers are the most approachable and wonderful people. Nam is complicated like her work–a consummate artisan.
Cool story – thanks!