Only nature could have created such a beautiful, intense gemstone. With a spectacular range second to none when it comes to its myriad of green hues, the magnificent green variety of beryl (a mineral group that includes Aquamarine, Morganite and Heliodor) is due to a small amount of chromium and vanadium within the crystal matrix.

Emeralds are associated to the astrological sign of Taurus. They are the birthstone for May and the anniversary gemstone for the 20th, 35th and 55th year of marriage.

It has been said that high quality Emeralds take on an almost velvety appearance, and are one of a few gems where inclusions are not only tolerated, but considered to be part of the gems character, often demanding a higher premium than a flawless one that is paler in colour.

Many virtues are ascribed to this jewel - said to promote constancy of mind, to quicken the intelligence, and drive away evil spirits. Emerald is believed to bring wisdom, true friendship and foresight in to the future. The name itself comes from the Greek word ‘smaragdos’ (a label given to a number of gems with the colour green in common). Representative of the ‘colour of spring’ Emeralds are said to signify hope, new growth and eternal life.

Mined some 4000 years ago in Egypt, during the reign of Pharaoh Sesostris III, this precious stone has been held in high regard since antiquity;

The Greeks who were working the mines of Alexander the Great were said to have yielded their gems to the Egyptian Queen; who was notorious for her love of Emeralds. In 1817 “Cleopatra mines” once thought to be myths were discovered on the coast of the red sea.

It was also revered as a holy gemstone by the Incas and Aztecs, associated with Venus the goddess of love and beauty by the Romans.

Shah Jahan the architect of the Taj Mahal, wore them as talismans inscribed with sacred text. This ‘Mongul Emerald’ is noted as one of the two most famous Emeralds dating back to 1695. It stands at 10cm high weighing 217.80 carats, and fetched $2.2 million dollars in auction to an anonymous bidder in Sept 2001. The second infamous Emerald; known as the ‘Patricia Emerald’, is a colossal 632 carats, and one of the worlds largest to date, currently displayed in the national history museum in New York.

Stones displaying bluish overtones are sourced from Columbia; these are highly coveted, and considered by connoisseurs to be some of the worlds finest. Other sources of Emeralds include Brazil, Pakistan, Siberia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.

Hardness: 6.5-7, Refractive Index: 1.57-1.58