Emerald, the birthstone for May, has been cherished for centuries, symbolizing rejuvenation and new beginnings. Often hailed as the epitome of green, emerald's vibrant hue mirrors the essence of spring. From the poetic description of Ireland as "the Emerald Isle" to the entrancing allure of this exquisite gem, the May birthstone, emerald, has captured the hearts and minds of people throughout history.
Emerald's Lush Significance: The rich green shades of emerald evoke images of serene and luxurious gardens. Legend has it that emerald possesses the mystical ability to enhance intelligence and wit in its wearer, while also being credited with curative properties against afflictions like cholera and malaria. Today, it is bestowed as a gift for the 20th and 35th wedding anniversaries.
The Story of the Emerald Birthstone
Meaning & History of the Emerald Birthstone:
Emerald has long entranced royalty, from Egyptian pharaohs to Inca emperors. Cleopatra, renowned for her opulence, held a particular fondness for emerald, incorporating it into her regal adornments. One noteworthy piece is the legendary Crown of the Andes, a testament to the Spanish reverence for the May birthstone. As legend has it, the largest emerald from this crown, known as the Atahualpa emerald, was taken from the last Inca emperor, Atahualpa, by conquistador Francisco Pizarro. Notably, emerald and gold treasures recovered from the 17th-century Spanish galleon Nuestra Señora de Atocha offer a glimpse into the colonial riches transported from the New World to Spain.
Emerald's etymology traces back to "smaragdos," an ancient Greek term signifying a green gem. Pliny the Elder, a Roman author who perished in the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius in 79 CE, noted in his comprehensive work, Natural History, that emerald was "nothing greens greener." Pliny also claimed that emeralds had therapeutic qualities beneficial to gem cutters, stating that "they have no better method of restoring their eyes than by looking at the emerald," as its soft green hue comforted and alleviated weariness. Modern science validates this belief, revealing that the color green can relieve stress and eye strain.
Emerald was also associated with mystical powers, believed to grant the ability to see the future when placed under the tongue. It was thought to bestow eloquence upon its wearer and expose false promises made by lovers.
Emerald's Global Origins For over 500 years, Colombia has reigned as the premier source of the finest emeralds, setting the standard by which all others are measured. Three notable mining sites in Colombia are Muzo, Chivor, and Coscuez. Each locale yields emeralds in various shades, but in general, Muzo produces darker, pure green emeralds. Chivor is associated with emeralds that are lighter in tone with a slight bluish-green tinge, while Coscuez offers emeralds with a slightly yellowish-green hue.
Brazil's state of Minas Gerais is another significant source of emeralds, with the Belmont mine being a prominent producer. Capoeirana, a rugged region primarily worked by independent miners and small-scale operations, is another essential locality.
Emeralds are also unearthed in Africa, with Zambia serving as a major source. Mines in the Ndola Rural Restricted Area are renowned for producing emeralds that exhibit a bluish-green coloration and darker tones. Pakistan and Afghanistan also play crucial roles in emerald production.
Caring for Your Precious Emerald Emerald boasts a hardness rating of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale, making it somewhat susceptible to scratching compared to a diamond, which ranks at 10. Emeralds are often treated to enhance color or clarity, with common methods including dyeing and fracture filling. To ensure the longevity of your emerald birthstone, avoid exposing it to heat, changes in air pressure (such as those experienced during air travel), and harsh chemicals. Ultrasonic cleaners should be avoided, as their vibrations and heat can cause filler material to seep out of fractures. Instead, gently scrub your emerald with a soft brush and warm, soapy water for safe cleaning.
Emerald's lush green beauty perfectly complements the spirit of spring and the celebration of life. With productive emerald mines across the globe, this gem continues to enchant all who love the color green or are born in May. Now, you can treat yourself or a loved one to an emerald that encapsulates the vibrancy of the season.