When we talk about gemstones, one gem always draws the attention with its lush green hue, rich history and profound symbolism- the Emerald gemstone. Regarded as the birthstone for May, this gorgeous gemstone has been treasured for centuries. It has undoubtedly captivated the hearts of many with its dazzling beauty and deep meaning. In this article, we’ll discover the fascinating history, symbolism and popularity of emeralds.. So, let’s get started!
The History of the Green Beauty
Emeralds carry a rich history, dating back to over 4,000 years to ancient Egypt. The Egyptians used to believe that emeralds are a token of rebirth, renewal, fertility and abundance. The famous queen of Egypt, Cleopatra, was quite fond of emeralds and used to wear various jewelry pieces bedecked with these gorgeous gemstones.
Mythologies about Emeralds
Emeralds have paved their path into endless myths in different cultures across the globe. According to Roman mythology, the green stone is linked to the goddess Venus who is said to spread love and devotion. Whereas, as per Indian astrology, the emerald gemstone is associated with the planet Mercury and is inter-alia believed to enhance communication skills and intelligence.
Famous Emeralds in History
For centuries, various astonishing emerald gemstones have gained popularity for their peerless beauty and heritage. One of the most famous is a 37-carat Colombian gemstone, the “Chalk Emerald”. It was once owned by Indian royalty, and now it is displayed at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History in Washington, D.C., captivating onlookers with its enchanting hue.
Another legendary emerald is the “Mogul Emerald”, a remarkable 217.80-carat gemstone with a unique Islamic naskh script engraved on it. This gem has been carrying its history since the 17th century and is regarded as one of the largest emeralds in the world.
Profound Symbolism, Meaning and Metaphysical Properties
Apart from their aesthetic beauty, emeralds represent nature and renewal through their captivating green color. The color also symbolizes hope, joy and prosperity, making this May birthstone an ideal gift choice for those who are born in the month of May. Wearing an emerald is said to deliver harmony in feelings, emotional balance, and overall well-being.
Emerald gemstones are also linked with unique metaphysical properties. In ancient times, people used to believe that emeralds could enhance eyesight. The gemstone was also said to sharpen memory and intelligence, making it a cherished gemstone among scholars and intellectuals.
Jewelry Bedecked with Emerald Gemstone
For centuries, the allure of the emerald has motivated several craftsmen and jewelry designers. Emerald rings, earrings and studs have gained quite a lot of popularity. They are endearing ageless pieces treasured for their glamor and enchanting glow. These gemstones are quite versatile and work wonders with dazzling diamonds. When set in precious gold or platinum their beauty achieves new heights.
A Glimpse of Emeralds in Today’s World
In the contemporary world, emeralds persist to captivate gemstone lovers and collectors alike. Their ageless beauty has made them an ideal choice for engagement rings, symbolizing evergreen love and promise. Emerald jewelry is also treasured as a significant and heartfelt gift for various occasions.
The list of modern celebs sporting emerald gemstone jewelry on various occasions is quite long. You can count a lot of names starting from Taylor Swift and going back to Elizabeth Taylor. Angelina Jolie, Paris Hilton, Jennifer Lopez, Beyonce – almost everyone is there.
The Mysterious Mines of Emerald
Emeralds are predominately mined in countries such as Colombia, Zambia, Brazil, and Zimbabwe, each boasting their distinctive geological settings. Colombian emeralds, regarded for their vivid green tone and extraordinary clarity, have been found in the Chivor, Muzo, and Coscuez regions for ages.
The picturesque Kagem and Grizzly mines of Zambia have been known for their premium quality emeralds since the 1980s. Belmont and Itabira mines of Brazil are also famous for their emerald deposits, while Sandawana mine in Zimbabwe generates a unique type of emerald famously recognized for their greenish-blue shade.
Maintenance of Emerald
The incredible score of 8 on the 10-point Mohs hardness scale, puts emerald in the league of hard gemstones. But in spite of this remarkable score, the gemstone requires careful handling and maintenance due its naturally occurring fissures called jardins (French for garden). As such you should keep away your emerald jewelry from others to avoid scratching. Also, do not use chemical or ultrasonic cleaning agents. Rather, use a mild soap solution for periodic cleaning, rinse with clean water and pat dry.
Summing Up
As we explored the fascinating history and profound meaning of the emerald gemstone, we unveiled the captivating tale of this green wonder. From ancient civilizations to the contemporary world, emeralds persist to maintain a special place in all hearts. Whether it’s a ring, earrings, bracelet, or necklace, the charm of emeralds never fades.
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