“Nothing greens greener,” Pliny the Elder once said, admiring the beauty of emeralds through their lush green hue. But let’s be honest, he didn’t quite do justice with that short depiction. A green emerald is more than the words of a Roman author. In today’s world of fine jewelry, these gemstones are not just green; they’re an emblem of lifestyle, a symbol of status.
Did we hear you cough? That means you need more proof to believe our words. So tighten your belt and sit tight, you’re about to experience a roller-coaster of information that might just make you dizzy. But since we care about your health, let’s take the ride gently. We pinky promise.
Origin of Green Emeralds
Emeralds have a deep fascinating history. The word “emerald” derives from the ancient Greek word “Smaragdus” or “smaragdos”, but surprisingly, its history dates back even before the Greeks or Romans. Ancient Egypt and South America’s Aztec and Incan cultures revered the stone not just for its natural beauty, but also for its healing and spiritual properties.
As a variety of the mineral beryl, a green emerald is prized for both clarity and mesmerizing color. The most valuable stones have a vibrant, deep green hue with bluish undertones. The magical color typically comes from the traces of vanadium and chromium in it.
So, what are the main characteristics of a green emerald? For that, we need to delve into the details of its 4Cs.
Color: A vivid green hue with proper saturation and depth is highly valuable.
Clarity: Just after the color comes the clarity. For most gemstones, inclusions are their flaws, but for emeralds, they’re a part of the charm. Known as “jardin,” which means garden in French, these inclusions are a natural feature of the gemstone.
Cut: Have you heard of any other gem with a cut named after it? No, only the emerald cut stands alone in its realm. Its rectangular-step facets enhance the stone’s color and help it exude brilliant sparkle.
Carat: Larger emeralds with good color and clarity are rare and expensive. While smaller stones are still valuable, they often offer better sparkle and brilliance.
So, do you want a green emerald the size of a bird’s egg or are you happy with smaller stones? Hold that thought, we’ve got more facts to share and stories to tell.
The Egyptian History of Green Emeralds
The emeralds of Cleopatra are worth a mention here. The Egyptian queen’s emerald necklaces were one of a kind, possibly sourced from her own mines. She significantly popularized the connection between royal power and these green gemstones.
Historical accounts reveal that Cleopatra adorned herself with mesmerizing emeralds to showcase her authority and wealth. She decorated her palace with these stones and gifted emeralds to foreign royals, using them as a tool of diplomacy and symbols of her political prowess.
Real emeralds were mined in ancient Egypt. Egyptians associated the green gemstone with rebirth and fertility, and symbolically linked it to the fertile land of the Nile.
In earlier times, Pharaohs were the only ones who wore green emeralds. They wore the stones at the tip of the finger, contrary to the traditional base placement. Egyptian kings were also buried with emeralds, as they symbolized eternal life. A fine necklace was even discovered in the tomb of King Tutankhamen.
Some also believed that wearing a green emerald with amethyst, lapis lazuli, agate and carnelian beads could protect the wearer from evil energies. According to Budge (1965), the first green stone talismans were carved into scarabs. They also believed it was imbued with power during a sacred rite of the “Ceremony of the Beetle.”
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries; emeralds were a very popular choice. The spectacular treasure unearthed from King Tutankhamen’s tomb in 1922 inspired the Art Deco jewelry designers to embrace the Egyptian motifs and themes.
Emerald Jewelry of Classical Greece and Rome
The green emerald gemstone was well-known in Greece and Rome. And just like the Egyptians, the Greeks and Romans revered this gemstone for talismans, healing and astrological powers. Most of their jewelry featured seals crafted from rough cut gems.
Emeralds in 14th-century Europe
In 1498, French Princess Anne Beaujeu’s headdress featured emeralds, pearls and diamonds. At that time, men wore green emerald stones on their clothes, belts and necklaces. In the late 14th century, elite women wore heavily padded gold hairnets and added emeralds as an essential part of the adornment.
European elites wore Emerald badges and brooches on silk dresses with low necklines and with gemstone decorations.
Emeralds Symbolism in Ancient Tales
The people of Manta, Peru, around the time of the Spanish conquest, worshipped an emerald the size of an ostrich egg. They revered the stone as the deity Umina. Priests displayed the emerald goddess only on special days, when devotees prayed to the mother stone by offering her “daughters,” smaller green stones.
When Spanish conquistadors conquered the area, they seized numerous emeralds but could never find the hidden Umina. They also destroyed many stones by using hammer blows, believing true emeralds could withstand the impact. Little did they know, a green emerald has a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively durable but nowhere close to diamonds.
Emerald in the Biblical Breastplate of Aaron
It’s an ongoing debate among scholars about whether there were emeralds in the breastplate of Aaron, depicted in Exodus in the Old Testament. Revisions of biblical text show that the names of many gemstones have changed over time. For instance, the Latin “Sapphirus” referred to any blue gem, including lapis lazuli, not just genuine blue sapphires.
Similarly, the breastplate included a green gemstone called “Smaragdus” or “smaragdos” in Ancient Greek. Whether this referred to green feldspar or emerald remains unclear. Since emerald mines existed in Nubia near Egypt before the construction of the breastplate, it’s possible that there were emerald carvings in it.
Emerald Symbolism in Christian Foundation Stones
Emeralds are one of the foundation stones of the Heavenly City in the New Testament Book of Revelation. Archbishop Rabanus Maurus of Mainz (786-856 CE) wrote, “In the emerald is expressed the strength of faith in adversity.”
Among other stones, emerald is connected to the twelve apostles. Andreas, bishop of Caesarea (563-637 CE), stated that the emerald, when nourished with oil, retained its transparency and beauty. He also added that the stone represented John the Evangelist who soothed the sinful souls with divine oil.
Later authors rejected the belief that the foundation stones represented the apostles, asserting that only Christ could be regarded as the true foundation of the Church. Still, many associated the green emerald with the goodness and kindness of Christ.
Phew! That was a long journey through emerald history and fascinating facts. Feeling dizzy yet? Hopefully not, because things are about to get even more intriguing as we dive into symbolism. Read on.
Green Emerald Symbolism
The soothing hue of a green emerald has long been associated with emotional and physical wellness. As the May birthstone, some believe it offers a range of benefits. Looking for new beginnings? Emeralds are here to assist. Need a clearer vision, even after a doctor’s prescription? This green stone might just give you a boost.
Whatever you need, emeralds will help you all the way. Just don’t rely on them as your full-time emotional support; they might not withstand the extra burden. Better to adopt a dog or a cat; they’re demanding, but far more suitable alternatives. Let’s begin.
Emotional Symbolism
Rubies may rule the department of love and passion, but in ancient times, the green emerald was also revered as a stone of love. Now, we’re not here to spark a tug-of-war among gemstone lovers; we come in peace, ready to pacify any hint of rivalry. Ruby enthusiasts, rest assured, the love symbolism of emeralds has its roots in vitality and happy new beginnings. They also represent faithful relationships with a strong emotional connection to a partner.
If ruby evokes passionate teenage adoration, emeralds symbolize a deeper, more mature love. That’s why they remain one of the beloved gemstones for anniversaries and engagements.
Physical Wellness
Ancient healers believed it could heal many ailments of the body and mind. They used this gemstone to restore heart health. Additionally, it was a popular thought that it could soothe the eye and bring relief to vision problems.
In earlier times, healers soaked emeralds in water overnight and the infused water was poured over the eyes. Because of their rejuvenating qualities, people believed it supported the immune system, pancreas and kidneys.
A green emerald is also thought to generate vitality and freshness in the wearer. If you’re a writer or artist facing a creativity block, reach out to emeralds for better mental clarity and focus. The stone may promote harmony among team members, so when you keep an emerald with you it can save you from workplace disagreements.
May Birthstone
Emerald is the official birthstone for those born in May. If you’re one of those lucky chaps, you might receive the boon of renewed life force, success in new projects and good health. Just don’t confuse the symbolism of renewal and rebirth with the nine lives of a cat; it’s completely metaphorical. You might not get a second chance if you attract danger to yourself.
That said, it’s the soothing, natural hue of the green emerald that inspires the belief in rejuvenation. And if you’re careful in life, taking measured steps toward success, you’re most likely to reach your destination.
Financial Prosperity
If you want to become a billionaire, reading a few inspirational books and saving money might not be enough. You can try entrusting your faith to emerald. This gemstone also has a connection to financial prosperity, and its positive energy may attract good fortune
Wearing a green emerald might help you regain focus on your life goals and career. It supports ambition and motivation, encouraging you to think openly about new opportunities.
Missed an interview call? Don’t worry, the green emerald is here to offer renewed energy so you can apply again elsewhere. It’s all about not giving up on life and definitely not on your emerald.
Emeralds and Feng Shui
According to Feng Shui practices, emeralds may foster deeper love and attract wealth. Placing a green emerald in your living room can promote balance and prosperity. Keeping the gemstone near business materials can help make financial dealings smoother.
Integrating this gemstone into home décor can create an inviting and serene atmosphere. By adding emeralds into your personal space, you may find positive energy flowing into all aspects of your life.
You don’t need voodoo or some magical spell to bring happiness and harmony. The natural power of a green emerald is enough to welcome a trouble-free life.
Fascinating Green Emerald Jewelry
According to legend, wearing emeralds could grant the ability to foresee the future, especially when you place it under the tongue. Some also believed that emeralds could reveal hidden truths and protect against ominous energies.
In ancient times, people also believed these gemstones could cure diseases like malaria and cholera. Wearing green emerald jewelry could expose the falseness of a lover’s promises and help the wearer become a more eloquent speaker.
All of these benefits, whether you believe in them or not, lead to one undeniable truth: you’re the one wearing the most stunning jewelry at any occasion. So, what are these fascinating options? Curious? Let’s dive in.
Emerald Rings
A halo green emerald ring framed by small diamonds is one of the most captivating pieces of all time. Whether you prefer an Art Deco style or an antique design, the green of the emerald will always dazzle the senses.
Emerald Earrings
A pair of emerald drop earrings becomes a symbol of elegant luxury, no matter the occasion. An oval-cut emerald centerstone can capture everyone’s attention, especially if you’re flaunting it at a party. Heads might not just turn; legs might give out at the sight of those earrings. And you don’t have to apologize for anyone’s clumsiness; your emeralds are there to help you hold your head high.
Emerald Necklaces
If you want to become the queen of subtle sophistication, emeralds are here to make that happen. A simple emerald-cut green emerald pendant on a delicate white or yellow gold chain can bring out nature’s pure essence within you. You might not need any other jewelry when you’re in the company of that solitary pendant.
For a formal event, choose an antique emerald necklace and watch jaws drop around you. That’s the astounding magic, partly you and partly the charm of the green emerald.
Emerald Bracelets
A gleaming row of green gemstones on your wrist can evoke an indescribable feeling of love. An emerald bracelet becomes your signature style, no matter where you go. Whatever design you choose, you end up with a sparkling wonder, a treat for your eyes alone.
Green emerald jewelry is not just a symbol of luxury; it’s an emblem of dazzling sophistication. Its green glow draws you closer to nature and your inner self, quietly, like a whisper of serenity in your ears or resting at your collarbones.
Care and Cleaning of Emeralds
Emeralds are relatively durable gemstones, with a score of 8 on the Mohs scale, but they’re still prone to chipping and scratches. To keep your green emerald shining for years, all you need is proper care.
Use a soft cloth with warm, soapy water to clean the gemstone. Avoid abrasive chemicals. After cleaning, rinse thoroughly and dry gently.
Store emerald jewelry in a separate box to prevent damage. Regular inspections by a professional jeweler can also keep the setting secure.
Parting Thoughts
The beauty of a green emerald is unparalleled, even compared to diamonds. Its soothing natural hue doesn’t just melt your heart; it draws you in, compelling you to listen to its captivating story. Just like you did, you’ve read the entire tale we’ve woven just for you.
From ancient Egypt to contemporary flair, emeralds are timeless beauties that never lose their charm. So, are you craving more? Oh, wait, of course, you need a jewelry store. All these details and no destination? That’s just unfair. Head to GemsNY, browse the glittering reviews and discover why everyone’s raving about us.
FAQ
Emeralds were mined in Egypt around 330 BC, though some estimate the oldest stones to be 2.97 billion years old. Cleopatra was the most famous historical figure to adore these gemstones. She even owned the mines in Egypt during her reign.
• Emeralds are twenty times rarer than natural diamonds.
• A green emerald is a variety of the mineral beryl.
• Though relatively durable, emeralds are delicate and require extra care to preserve their natural glory.
• Colombian emeralds are the most valuable, depending on color and size, some can reach $100,000 per carat.
• Emeralds symbolize foresight, wit, royalty and eloquence. They’re also the official birthstone for those born in May.
• Emerald is the gemstone for the 55th anniversary.
As a life-affirming stone, emeralds have a deep connection to the heart chakra, offering calming energy. Some also believe they provide patience, wisdom, balance and inspiration to the wearer
The most expensive color of a green emerald is pure green to bluish green with vivid saturation. Prized emeralds are transparent and contain fewer inclusions.
Yes. The vibrant green hue of an emerald symbolizes eternal life, fertility and rebirth. Egyptian Kings were buried with emerald jewelry in their tombs, honoring the stone’s rich symbolism.
This is a unique rectangular step cut, specifically designed to enhance the color and reduce stress on the gemstone. Only this cut directly takes its name from the stone itself.
Yes, lab-made emeralds have ethical and responsible sources. These gemstones are chemically identical to their mined counterparts, but created in a controlled environment, leaving a smaller carbon footprint.
Anne Hathaway, Zendaya, Beyoncé and Angelina Jolie are some of the popular celebrities who have worn green emerald jewelry on red carpets.
Yes, absolutely! At GemsNY, you can craft your own emerald jewelry with the “Make your own” option. You can design a piece that resonates with you.
Yes, you can wear green emerald jewelry every day. While it’s not as tough as diamonds, with proper care, it can become your signature style. Choose minimalist stud earrings, a pendant and rings to elevate your daily fashion.
While rubies symbolize passion, emeralds represent enduring and mature love. Often chosen for engagement rings, they’re believed to strengthen relationships and bring lasting harmony.
As the birthstone of May, emeralds symbolize peace, patience and wisdom. These stones make meaningful gifts for those born in this month and are believed to bring good fortune.
Historically, gem cutters kept green emeralds on their work tables, believing the soothing green hue could relieve eye strain. After long hours of detailed work on other gemstones, looking at emeralds was thought to ease visual fatigue.
