Emerald

Basic Information

Emerald’s luscious green colours can be found nowhere else in Nature and have long been regarded as the symbol of fertility, rebirth and springtime. The ancient Egyptians used to mine Emerald nearly 4,000 years ago and Cleopatra was an avid collector. South America’s rich bounty of Emeralds was discovered by 16th Century Spanish explorers who found large Emeralds in the possession of the Aztecs and Incas. Emerald can be cut in a variety of different shapes ranging from the traditional rectangular step-cut known as the “emerald cut” to rounds, ovals, squares and cabochons.

One of the most revered of all gemstones. Emerald has long been regarded as the quintessential green in Nature. Most natural Emeralds have inclusions often called “Jardin,” or gardens which are regarded as Emerald’s natural birthmarks. Emerald is the birthstone for May and a talisman for Gemini.

Emerald symbolizes rebirth and youth. Believed by the ancients to empower the owner with foresight into the future and as an amulet for good fortune.

Locations Found

Most of the world’s Emeralds are mined in Colombia, Brazil and Zambia.

Specifications
Colour: Green
Hardness: 7.5 to 8.0
Refractive Index: 1.56 to 1.59
Specific Gravity: 2.6 to 2.84