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Gemstone Infocenter
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Comprehensive Gemstone
Information |
Emerald - Birthstone
of May
Introduction
The name Emerald comes from the French "Esmeraude." This word comes
from the Greek root "Smaragdos." It simply means "Green Stone."
Emerald is the birthstone for May. Emerald is the anniversary gemstone for
the 20th, 35th and 55th year of marriage. It is the perfect emblem of an enduring
love.
The Emerald is a green member of the popular beryl family of minerals. The
green color occurs when pure, clear beryl contains either chromium or vanadium.
Colombian Emeralds are among the world's most beautiful and sought after.
They are blessed with rich
grass-green coloring that's often kissed with a touch of blue. Quality Emeralds
are also found in India, South Africa, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Russia, and
Zimbabwe.
History
Emerald has a rich history. There is archeological evidence that the
Babylonians may have been marketing Emeralds as early as 4,000 B.C. The mining
of Emeralds goes back to more than 3,000 years ago, during the time of
the Ancient Egyptian Empire. Emerald bracelets, Emerald earrings and Emerald
rings have all been worn and sought after since ancient times. Mummies were
often buried with Emeralds. The ancient Romans associated Emeralds with
fertility and rebirth, dedicating it to Venus, their goddess of love and beauty.
The "green fire" was highly valued and sought after in the courts of Europe.
The Spanish Conquistadors went on a bloody campaign to find the location of
the emerald mines in South America. In 1557, the campaign finally ended with the
discovery of the spectacular Muzo and Chivor mines in present day Colombia -
still the world's major source of emerald.
Emeralds have been an ornament of power and politics that have created legends
and molded world history.
Since the time of Cleopatra and continuing today, emeralds have set the
standard for the ultimate color in green gemstones. A fine emerald is truly
breathtaking. It has earned its place among the "big four" gemstones along with
sapphire, ruby and diamond.
Next: Location
[ Emerald part 2 ] [
Emerald part 3 ] [
Emerald part 4 ]
See Also:
Products with Emerald
Therapeutic Power of Emerald
Gemstone Infocenter Home
Gift Selections incorporating Gemstones
Guide to Caring for Gemstones
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