Emerald Birthstone | Madison Gems

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20th Anniversary, 20th Anniversary Gift, Birthstones, Elizabeth Taylor Emerald, Elizabeth Taylor Emerald Pendant, Emerald, Emerald Accessories, Emerald Birthstone, Emeralds, Green Birthstone, Green Birthstones, Madison Gems, May Birthday, May Birthstone, May Jewelry, Statement Jewelry, Twentieth Anniversary, Twentieth Anniversary Gift, Twentieth Wedding Anniversary

The month of May has been graced with the highly sought after emerald as it’s the official birthstone. The emerald gemstone is a symbol of rebirth and its believed to grant the owner foresight, good fortune and youth. Prized for its luminous and alluring green color, emeralds are typically favored by celebrities and people of wealth, to wear as statement pieces to notable events.

The name emerald is derived from the word “smaragdus,” which means “green” in Greek. In fact, emeralds range in color from light green to a deep rich green. On the contrary, just like the aquamarine gemstone, emerald is a variety of beryl, which is a mineral that grows with six sides and up to a foot in length. As well, just like aquamarine, an emeralds color can present itself in various hues, depending on its cut by a skilled gemologist. Cut is very important on an emerald, because it helps to maximize a desirable green color. Moreover, many emeralds are cut into an emerald shape, which helps to make a vivid looking stone with sparkle, while minimizing inclusions or fissures. In point of fact, most emeralds are heat treated to deepen or enhance the color. Therefore, the deeper or more green an emerald, the more valuable it is. Withal, the rarest emeralds will appear to be an intense green-blue hue.

Emeralds were mined in Egypt as early as 330 BC, but some estimate that the oldest emeralds are 2.97 billion years old. The Egyptians used emeralds both in jewelry, and in their extravagant yet ornate burials, often burying emeralds with monarchs as symbols of protection. Actually, Cleopatra is the most famous historical figure to cherish emeralds. Historians say she even claimed ownership of all emerald mines in Egypt during her reign. At present, emeralds can be found all over the world, including countries like Colombia, Brazil, Afghanistan and Zambia. However, the availability of high-quality emerald is limited; thus, treatments to improve clarity are performed regularly.

Additionally, It’s believed that emeralds have many mystical powers that accompany its luxe beauty. Likewise, some even thought emeralds could cure stomach problems, control epilepsy and stop bleeding. What’s more, it’s a great possibility that due to its soothing green color, it was also thought that emeralds could ward off panic and keep the wearer relaxed and serene.

Today, emeralds are a symbol of loyalty, new beginnings, peace and security, making it not only a beautiful gem to wear, but also a meaningful gift to be treasured dearly by the receiver. It is widely prized by the rich and famous. In fact, Elizabeth Taylor’s famous emerald pendant given to her by her third husband Richard Burton, sold for $6.5 million in 2011. Accordingly, if you’re purchasing an emerald for yourself or a loved one, it’s a great way to recognize and celebrate a May birthday, it’s known to bring in brilliance, love, liveliness, and empathy or salute a 20th wedding anniversary.