Enchanting Emerald: May's Regal Gemstone
As the birthstone for May, the emerald, a symbol of rebirth, is believed to grant the owner foresight, good fortune, and youth. Emerald, derived from the word “smaragdus,” means, quite literally, “green” in Greek.
Green — the most abundant hue in nature — is the colour the human eye sees more than any other in the spectrum, so it makes sense that the attraction to colour in objects brings a sense of calm, clarity, renewal, and rejuvenation, which is so important in today’s complex world.
Emeralds get their green colour from Chromium and Vanadium trace elements
One of four gemstones globally recognised as ‘precious’ (the others being diamonds, sapphires and rubies), emeralds are made from beryl. They get their green colour from trace amounts of chromium and/or vanadium. Unlike the other precious stones, which can be found in a variety of colours, emeralds are only green, though their hues range from yellow-green to deep jade.
Emeralds are also prized for their jardin — the natural “garden” of inclusions formed within the stone over immense spans of time. Unlike other gemstones, where inclusions are often seen as imperfections, an emerald’s jardin is embraced as part of its individuality and beauty. The palest stones are not actually emeralds, but rather known as green beryl. The most desirable emerald colours are bluish-green to green, with vivid saturation and medium to medium-dark tone.
While Colombia has the most famous and well-known pure greens, Zambian emeralds are known for their bluish-green hue and remarkable depth of colour.
Emeralds are rarer and often more expensive than diamonds
Cleopatra is perhaps the most famous historical figure to cherish emerald gemstones. She even claimed ownership of all emerald mines in Egypt during her reign. The Egyptians used emeralds both in jewellery and in their elaborate burials, often burying emerald stones with monarchs as symbols of protection.
On the other side of the world, the Muzo Indians of Colombia had well-hidden and prized emerald mines. These mines were so hidden, it took the Spanish conquistadors nearly twenty years to find them.
Today, emerald is a symbol of loyalty, new beginnings, peace, and security, making it not only a beautiful gem to wear, but also a meaningful jewellery gift to be treasured by the wearer.
Today, emerald is a symbol of loyalty, new beginnings, peace, and security, making it not only a beautiful gem to wear, but also a meaningful jewelry gift to be treasured by the receiver.
