Emerald Gemstone Information
Emerald, the lush green gemstone, is one of the most treasured gemstones in the world. It is referred to as the ‘Jewel of Kings’ because of its exquisite beauty and its connection with royalty. What makes emerald so unique is its stunning green color, which symbolizes rebirth, growth, fertility, and harmony.
Emerald belongs to the beryl mineral family, which also includes aquamarine, morganite, and heliodor. What sets emerald apart from other beryl gemstones is its characteristic green color, which results from the presence of chromium and vanadium in its crystal structure.
Emeralds are mined in many countries around the globe, including Colombia, Brazil, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. Colombian emeralds are among the most prized because of their deep green color and transparency. Brazilian emeralds, on the other hand, are known for their bright green color and exceptional clarity.
Here are some more facts about emerald gemstones:
1. Emeralds have a Mohs hardness of 7.5 to 8, making them a relatively hard gemstone. However, they are prone to cracks and inclusions due to their crystal structure, which can affect their durability.
2. Emeralds are highly valued for their clarity, color, and cut. The most sought-after emeralds are those that are free of inclusions, have an intense green color, and a symmetrical and well-balanced cut.
3. The green color of emeralds can vary from light green to deep green, depending on the presence of other minerals in the crystal structure. Some emeralds may also exhibit a bluish-green or yellowish-green hue.
4. Emeralds are often treated with oils or resins to enhance their clarity and to minimize the visibility of cracks and inclusions. However, these treatments are not permanent and may need to be reapplied over time.
5. Emeralds have a long and rich history, dating back to ancient times. They were highly valued by the ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans for their beauty and believed to have healing properties. Cleopatra, the famous Egyptian queen, was known for her love of emeralds and had a vast collection of them.
6. Emeralds are often associated with May birthdays and the astrological sign of Taurus. They are also the traditional gift for couples celebrating their 20th or 55th wedding anniversary.
7. In addition to their beauty, emeralds are believed to have several metaphysical properties. They are said to promote emotional balance, enhance creativity, and inspire loyalty and devotion.
8. The largest emerald ever recorded is the Bahia Emerald, which is estimated to weigh around 840 pounds. The gemstone is a massive crystal of emerald and is believed to be worth around $400 million.
9. The emerald is also the birthstone of Gemini, and according to ancient astrology, this mystical stone was believed to increase a person's intelligence, provide a faster wit, and bring good fortune.
10. The most important factor that determines the value of an emerald is its color. A deep green color with a high saturation is the most desirable and thus the most expensive. The other aspects that add to the emerald's value are its clarity, weight, and cut.
In conclusion, emerald is a gemstone that exudes elegance, luxury, and sophistication. Its lustrous green color, coupled with its rarity and historical significance, make it highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts. Whether given as a gift or worn as an accessory, emerald will always remain an iconic gemstone that epitomizes timeless beauty. With its various metaphysical properties, it's no wonder why emerald remains a popular piece of jewelry that is not only admired but also coveted.