May is one of my favourite months of the year and May's birthstone, Emerald is one of my favourite gems. Emerald is one of the most precious gems in the world and has been prized for millennia.
A member of the beryl family, Emerald was mined in Ancient Egypt and later in India and Austria. Emerald is found all over the world with the largest volume coming from Columbian and Zambian mines.
It was said that Cleopatra favoured emeralds in her jewellery. The Hindu Goddess, Meenakshi's idol is traditionally thought to be made out of emerald. The Incas used emeralds in their religious ceremonies and jewellery for hundreds of years.
The green colour of emeralds comes from the presence of chromium and vanadium in the mineral beryl, which is the stone that emeralds are derived from. The intensity of the green colour depends on the amount of these elements present, and the most valuable emeralds have a deep, vivid green hue.
Traditionally, emeralds were believed to have healing properties. They were believed to promote fertility, boost the immune system, and aid in recovery from illness. Some also believe that emeralds can help with emotional healing and promote a sense of calm and balance.
Emeralds are a truly majestic gemstone and make a wonderful gift for those born in May or anyone who appreciates their history and beauty.