Emerald - May's Birthstone
Emerald, the birthstone of May
“…Of all green things which bounteous earth supplies, nothing in greenness with the emerald vies…”
- Marbode Rennes’ (1035-1123)
It’s time to welcome in May, and with it, the birthstone, emerald.
Often seen as a symbol of renewal, growth and healing, emeralds are the green variety of the mineral beryl. Given the color and the meaning behind the stone, they make the perfect accompaniment to spring.
Ranging in green hues from bluish to yellowish, emeralds also provide a variety of tones as well from light to dark and everything in between.
~ An assortment of emerald gemstones, photo curtesy of Stuller
Emerald is not only the birthstone for May, it is also the stone associated with the zodiac sign, Taurus, the bull.
Texts that mention emerald found in India, date back to the 2nd century B.C, and more writings state that stones were being bought and sold in Babylonian markets as early as 4,000 B.C.
Our modern name, emerald, is thought to possibly come from a few sources, including the old French word, “esmeraude”, or Latin “Esmeralda”. An older name, “smaragdus”, which is Latin derived from Greek “σμάραγδος (smáragdos)”, meaning “green gem”, has also been used.
~ Emeralds bead on a woven style bracelet by Amali
These green jewels have a storied and treasured past, with the Egyptians, Greeks and Romans all adoring the gem. Emeralds were seen in jewelry, seals, decorative inlays, and even eye glasses.
In Egypt and Greece, there existed a legend of a great emerald tablet, supposedly written upon by Thoth, the Egyptian god of knowledge, learning and wisdom. This emerald tablet was said to have all alchemical knowledge written on it, including the recipe to “create” gold.
Stories claim that Alexander the Great found the tablet, and there are documents from the Middle Ages that show adventurers actively searching for it. Most modern scholars agree that, if such a tablet even existed, it was likely another green rock or mineral or possibly glass, as the Egyptians were known to use green glass.
~ Emerald earrings by Stanton Color and Emerald pendant by Roman and Jules
The Aztec used emeralds in jewelry as well, and likened the color to the plumes of Quetzal, one of their gods that took the shape of a glorious bird. As such, they believed the stone to be a symbol of royalty.
While a few countries have smaller scale mines, key origin locations for emeralds are Zambia and Brazil, and of course, Colombia. Colombia has become famous for many fine quality emeralds throughout the years, usually of stunning color.
~ Emerald and diamond rings by Jye's International
Emeralds are an ancient gemstone with rich history and unique green hues. It’s the perfect gem as plants come to life in May, brightening the world.
These jewels carry a softness to them, a relaxing and gentle presence. Green is often considered a lucky color, and if you own an emerald, you should definitely enjoy wearing it!
~Blog by Isabelle Corvin, Staff Gemologist and Merchandising Manager at Panowicz Jewelers