Emerald – The birthstone of May
Legend and Myth of Emerald
People believed emerald could confer riches, power, and eloquence if worn as talismans which known as birthstone of May. Purportedly, the emerald also strengthened memory and sharpened wits. Its most valuable power was perhaps bestowing the ability to predict future events.
Therefore, emeralds are considered as best gemstone of all time to make jewelry like Engagement rings, Wedding bands, Necklaces, bracelets…
In past eras, Arab, Hindu, and Spanish physicians used emeralds against poison, infection, and dysentery. Many people believed the gemstone could also protect against possession by demons.
Modern History Emerald
In the last two centuries, emeralds have become an emblem of wealth, style and beauty in a jewelry shape: widely usable in Engagement rings, Fashion rings, Earrings, Necklace ….
Many iconic women including Queen Elizabeth II, Jackie Onassis, Grace Kelly and Elizabeth Taylor have admitted to falling in love with emerald jewelry.
At the 2009 Oscars, Angelina Jolie-Pitt wore a pair of emerald earrings worth a staggering two million US dollars.
Hard Facts About Emerald
Emeralds are made of the mineral beryl. Its green colour comes from chromium or vanadium.
It registers 7.5–8 on the Mohs scale of hardness. However, emeralds contain natural inclusions and can be quite fragile.
The word “emerald” comes from the Greek smaragdus meaning “green”.
Where Emerald found?
Emeralds are mining in Colombia, Zambia, Afghanistan and other countries, Afghanistan is famed for the high quality and rich green color of its gems, as well as the expertise of its emerald cutters.
Famous Emerald -The Chalk Emerald
One of the most famous precious stones is also a world-traveler. Originally hailing from Colombia after the Spanish conquest in the 14th and 15th centuries, it became the centerpiece of a dazzling diamond and emerald necklace owned by Indian Maharani, Sita Devi. Years later following a depleting divorce, the Chalk Emerald made its way to the U.S. via jeweler Harry Winston. Finally in 1972 after a jet setting spree, the emerald settled into its final home, The Smithsonian. In addition to its global history, the Chalk Emerald weighs 37.82 carats and is famous for its velvety rich green color.
Care and Cleaning
Emeralds should never be cleaned with hot water,, steam or any other solution that contains petroleum distillates or any organic solvents. Jewelry cleaning solutions sold as such In the market are not compatible with the oil treatment of emeralds.
Read here more: how to clean your jewelry
