One of the most well known gemstones – the emerald – a history full of royalty and magical spells. Not to mention that it’s been a favourite of jewellers for thousands of years. There’s lots to learn…
What’s more we feel we’ve barely scratched the surface, so if you’re looking for more on emeralds let us know.
1.How Emeralds got there name.
The name for emerald can be traced back to the Greeks, who used the latin word – smaragdus or esmaraldus in vulgar latin. Which translates literally to green gem – which is very fitting.
The writings of Pliny the Elder (author, naturalist and philosopher) reference the emerald too. Commenting “nothing is greener”.
In Mexico, emeralds were called Quetzalitzli due to their resemblance to the feathers of the quetzal bird, which was associated with royalty.
Emerald is also referred to as the gemstone of successful love (more on that later) and The Jewel of Kings. A stone of many accolades.
2. Beautiful Beryl
Emerald is made from a green-blue variety of the mineral Beryl – (Be3Al2(SiO3)6) if you want to get specific.
There are many other gemstones formed from beryl including aquamarine and morganite.
3. What’s the Oldest Emerald
The oldest known emeralds are estimated to be 2.9 billion years old, with the oldest mines being in Ancient Egypt – dating to 330 B.C.
Emeralds were also mined by many cultures in Central and South America. The Inca believed they were the tears of the moon goddess.
4. Emerald is in the Precious Stone Club
Emerald is one of the four precious stones which include diamonds, rubies, and sapphires.
They are traditionally the most expensive and sought after stones, due to their clarity, hardness and colour.
5. Flaws in emeralds don’t always take from their value.
The value of an emerald often is set by its colour – the greener the better. While clarity is important in emeralds, untreated clear coloured stones with inclusions can be twice as valuable as their treated counterparts.
6. Emerald was a Favourite of Cleopatra
Cleopatra had a love of emeralds and used them in many of her royal adornments. She would also give visiting VIPs her likeness carved into emeralds.
The ancient Egyptians believed emeralds to symbolise eternal youth with many being buried with the stone.
7. Emerald is May’s Birthstone
Emerald is often known as the “stone of successful love”. It is reputed to bring loyalty and balance. It enhances unconditional love, unity and promotes friendship.
It was also thought that emeralds could make you tell the truth when you recite a lover oath.
The Emerald City in the wizard of Oz had roads paved with emeralds. Perfect for fans of green.