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Emerald
– May's Gemstone of Earthly Envy
Author: Sarah Stephens
Emerald is a
precious gemstone frequently incorporated into some of the most
modern, beautiful handmade jewelry in the world. It is most often
found in shades of opaque or translucent green, and is widely
recognized as the May Birthstone and the gemstone for the 20th, 35th
and 45th anniversaries. But beyond its modern-day uses and
associations, emerald holds a decadent mythological, spiritual and
etymological history that adds nostalgic value to its already strong
aesthetic worth. Read on for more information that will help you fall
in love with your emerald jewelry – or inspire you to buy some today!
Emerald is the
green variety of the species beryl and is one of the three most
precious of colored stones, ranging from a light lemony-lime green to
a dark, intense forest green, and bluish-green. The name Emerald is
derived from the French word "esmeraude," which goes back
to the Greek word "smaragdos" that means "green
gemstone." Emerald
has long been considered the finest of the green colored stones, as
it is often compared to rich green landscapes--Ireland is called the
"Emerald Isle."
The ancient
Incas and Aztecs in South America worshipped the Emerald, proclaiming
it was a holy stone, offering it to the Gods. They would rather
suffer death than reveal their Emerald sources! The Greeks also
dedicated this beautiful green gem to the goddess Venus.
Emerald
gemstones look best as parts of formal evening jewelry when paired
with Black Onyx, white pearls or black
diamonds. More casual combinations include lighter contrasts of
green emerald with quartz, carnelian or topaz. To see a selection of
handmade artisan jewelry featuring emerald, click here. Emerald is
typically considered a sophisticated gemstone that works well with
any outfit. In earrings,
it works especially well to enhance the luster of green or hazel eyes.
Emeralds are
believed to promote physical and emotional healing, in addition to
symbolize faith and immortality, aid eye-sight, and intelligence.
They are said to have a powerful affect on both the subconscious and
conscious mind, increasing memory and psychic awareness.
The Emerald
was first mined in Egypt around 3500 BC. The Egyptian Pharaohs called
these sources "Cleopatra Mines." Egypt was a major source
until the 16th century, until the Spaniards discovered more in South
America (Columbia). Today they are found in Zambia, Brazil, Africa,
and Russia, just to name a few.
Mohs' Hardness
score is based on a 10 point scale where 10 is the most resistant,
like a diamond, and 1 is easily scratched, such as Talc. Emerald gets
a score of 6.5-7, meaning that it is somewhat scratch resistant and
therefore suitable as a component of jewelry. Emerald
gemstones should be regularly cleaned by a professional or with
a soft rag and mild soap and water. Avoid ultra-sonic cleaners,
solvents and harsh chemicals when cleaning your handcrafted jewelry
as exposure to these elements can damage semi-precious and precious
gemstones and pearls.
Learn more
about all semi-precious gemstones, including amethyst, apatite, black
onyx, blue topaz, carnelian, chalcedony, citrine, coral, garnet,
white topaz, crystal, diamond, emerald, iolite, jade, Labradorite,
moonstone, pearl, peridot, prehnite, rose quarz, ruby, sapphire,
smokey topaz, tanzanite, tourmaline and tourquoise when you check out
this gemstone chart. |
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