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Nothing speaks to the season of renewal like the extraordinary emerald, making it the perfect birthstone for May. Its vivid green hue symbolizes more than what first meetings the eye. In many cultures, this gemstone has represented growth, fertility and harmony. Throughout history, it’s been treasured all over the world. Let’s take a look into the beautiful story of the emerald to dig deeper into why it’s been prized for hundreds of years.
Originally named “smaragdus,” by ancient Greeks, the emerald was first found in Grecian mines dating as early as 330 BCE. The mines of Greece were the only significant source for the gemstone for nearly two thousand years, until this rich gemstone was found in Colombia around 1545 CE. Because its rarity, this luscious green stone has been highly sought after ever since.
Tales of the emerald’s prestige were first accounted by ancient Greek philosophers. Aristotle wrote that owning one of these stones increased the owner’s importance in business matters. Pliny the Elder described the gems as the greenest thing he’d ever seen. Emeralds were rumored to have healing properties, like the ability to reduce stress and ease strain on one’s eyesight. Other legends from that time state that the wearer of this magnificent gem would become endowed with the ability to see the future when the stone was placed under the tongue.
Regardless of the myths surrounding the stone, emeralds will always be known for the obsession Cleopatra had with them. She deeply admired the gem and used it in all of her royal adornments. In fact, she was so fond of the stone that when foreign dignitaries visited Egypt, Cleopatra had their likenesses carved out of emerald as a friendly gesture. To this day, her collection is regarded as the largest of any one stone in the world.
Throughout centuries, emeralds have evolved into one of the most rare and expensive gems available on the market. During the 1920’s and 1930’s in America, this stone was exceedingly popular and featured on most engagement rings and fashion jewelry. Today, non-traditional stones like emeralds, rubies and sapphires are making a resurgence in engagement ring styles. This green stone is also the traditional gift for the twentieth and thirty-fifth wedding anniversaries.
Nowadays, emeralds are still highly regarded for their vibrant green hue. This verdant stone is the perfect choice for spring jewelry and Meritage has a blossoming collection of emerald jewelry for you to explore. From earrings to pendants, the perfect emerald is just waiting for you. Plus, we have a vast selection of fashion jewelry featuring world-class designers like Fana, Roman & Jules and Charles Krypell. So, if you’re on the lookout for renewal, visit us today at our 1620 York Road location or on our website.
