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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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