Emerald is May’s Birthstone. Emeralds are rare and valuable, and mostly used in jewellery. The rich green emerald colour is still the most important factor in gem quality, with clarity a close second (as the stone is prone to inclusions).
History
Historically, emeralds have been mined in Egypt, India and Austria. Nowadays the two biggest producers are Colombia and Zambia. Emeralds were highly prized by ancient cultures, and were a favourite of Cleopatra.The Muzo people had a legend that emeralds were the tears of Fura, one of their creator gods. Later the Spanish Conquistadors looted huge quantities of the gem from the Aztecs.
The purest emeralds in the world are Colombian Emeralds, a fact that has produced a thriving illegal gem trade by quaqueros in the country. The Brazialian Bahia Emerald is generally regarded as the best and biggest emerald in the world. It weighs 752lbs and is valued at $400m.
Emerald’s Meaning
The emerald has long been associated with fertility, rebirth, and love. Ancient Romans went so far as to dedicate this stone to Venus, the goddess of love and beauty. Today, it is thought that emeralds signify wisdom, growth, and patience. Emerald is also considered to represent loyalty, friendship and faithfulness. This makes it the perfect stone (after diamonds) for engagement and wedding rings.
In ancient times it was also thought to have healing properties. The healing power of Emerald was thought to ward off epileptic fits, cure fever and stomach ailments and put a stop to bleeding. Moreover, this stone is said to guard the one who wears it from panic.