Emerald, with its lush, radiant green hue, is the birthstone for the month of May. This exquisite gemstone, associated with rebirth, love, and wisdom, has a rich history and significance that transcends generations.
Origins of Emeralds
Emeralds, belonging to the beryl family of minerals, have been cherished and admired since ancient times. The word 'emerald' originates from the ancient Greek word 'smaragdus,' which means 'green stone.' These gemstones are primarily found in Colombia, Brazil, and Zambia, but their historic origins trace back to Egypt. Queen Cleopatra was known for her fondness of emeralds.
Clarity in Emeralds
Unlike most other gemstones, emeralds are known and prized for their natural inclusions which are referred to as "jardin". The word "jardin" comes from the French word for garden, as these inclusions can create an appearance that resembles foliage or plant life.
Myths and Legends
Throughout history, emeralds have been at the center of many myths and legends. The ancient Romans believed that emeralds symbolized Venus, the goddess of love and beauty, thereby associating the gemstone with romance and marital bliss. In other cultures, emeralds were thought to possess magical qualities that could protect against evil and enhance clairvoyance.
Healing Properties
Beyond their undeniable beauty, emeralds are often associated with numerous healing properties. They are believed to promote emotional wellbeing and balance, offering harmony to those who wear them. Additionally, emeralds are thought to enhance mental clarity and memory, making them a prized gemstone for individuals seeking wisdom and growth.
Famous Emeralds
The Chalk Emerald is a famous emerald known for its remarkable quality and color. Originating from the renowned emerald mines in Colombia, this gemstone weighs approximately 37.82 carats. The Chalk Emerald ring, now housed in the National Museum of Natural History in Washington D.C., is set in a ring surrounded by sixty pear-shaped diamonds.
Caring for Emeralds
Caring for emerald jewelry requires a bit of extra caution due to the gemstone's relative softness and common inclusions.
Never put your emeralds in an ultrasonic cleaner. Instead, clean them with warm, soapy water and a soft brush.
Store your emerald jewelry separately to prevent them from scratching other pieces or being scratched themselves. Never put your emeralds in an ultrasonic cleaner.
If you have an active lifestyle or are hard on your jewelry, consider sticking to earrings and necklaces for your emerald jewelry since earrings and necklaces are less exposed to bumps than rings.
These emeralds are great examples of "jardin" - the leaf-like inclusions that are common in emeralds.