Emerald: The May Birthstone
Emerald gemstone is a luxurious stone that is rare and very valuable. It’s pure and clear variety is very rare therefore considered among the top gemstones in the world. Emerald is the birthstone for May. It comes from Beryl mineral and often has impurities and trace elements. Emerald is a soft stone, its weaker than other gemstones and therefore needs special tools and techniques to be formed into jewelry.
The word “Emerald” comes from a mixture of Latin and Ancient Greek language meaning “Green Gem”. It is treasured and cherished all over the world. The natural emeralds are more valuable; however, synthetic (lab made) emeralds are also very popular.
Colombia and Zambia are the world’s largest producers of Emeralds. The natural emeralds are found in Afghanistan, Brazil, China, Egypt, France, Pakistan, Russia, Nigeria, Madagascar, Spain, and India.
History of Emeralds
Emerald gemstones were first discovered in Egypt in the 15th century BCE. Queen Cleopatra was so in love with this gemstone due to its radiant and lush green color. When Romans invaded Egypt they took control over the Emerald mines and exploited the industry. After other civilizations had conquered Egypt, the emerald was later used in Islamic civilization. Mosques and tombs were decorated with unique designs and embellished with emeralds. Later, when mines where discovered in Colombia and it became the largest producer, the mines in Egypt were shut down and only ruins remained.
Believed Spiritual Qualities
The precious emerald gemstone is also popular due to its believed spiritual qualities. Emerald signifies beauty and love; it increases harmony and happiness for the wearer.
According to western astrology, emerald opens the mind and creates and connection to the soul. Emerald heals the broken heart and brings relief in sadness. The ones who wear emeralds are said to have the best of luck in love life and financial terms too. Emerald gemstone also signifies faithfulness in a relationship and brings bliss and happiness to the domestic environment.
It is also believed that emerald prevents the wearer from nightmares and clears the mind from negative thoughts.
In ancient times it was believed that if you put an emerald stone under your tongue, you will be able to see the future.
Interesting Facts
There are some more interesting facts about the lush green emerald gemstone.
The queen of beauty, Elizabeth Taylor was the owner of the 23 carat Emerald necklace that was auctioned and sold in 2011.
The famous emeralds in the world are the Emerald of Saint Louis, Mogal Mughal Emerald, Bahia Emerald, and Gachala Emerald.
Emerald Jewelry
The luxurious emerald jewelry is loved by many woman and men all around the world. We have seen numerous celebrities flaunting emerald jewelry pieces on red carpets. Emeralds are often paired with diamonds for high quality and valuable jewelry.
The most popular look of Angelina Jolie with the green emerald earrings is still fresh in everyone’s memory. Emerald jewelry is always in trends due to its luxurious look and amazing designs.
Gemstone Gift Guide 
