The History of Emerald (2024)

FAQs

What is the history behind emeralds? ›

The first known emerald mines were in Egypt, dating from at least 330 BC into the 1700s. Cleopatra was known to have a passion for emerald, and used it in her royal adornments. Emeralds from what is now Colombia were part of the plunder when sixteenth-century Spanish explorers invaded the New World.

Today, emerald is a symbol of loyalty, new beginnings, peace, and security, making it not only a beautiful gem to wear, but also a meaningful jewelry gift to be treasured by the receiver. It is still widely prized by the rich and famous, with Elizabeth Taylor's famous emerald pendant selling for $6.5 million in 2011.

Emeralds: History's most ancient treasures

However, they were first mined in Egypt around 1500BC, where it was believed that emeralds stood for fertility and rebirth. Mummies were often buried with them to symbolise eternal youth. The Incas and Aztecs also valued these rich green gems, worshipping them as gods.

In ancient times, emerald was connected to Venus, the goddess of love, beauty and prosperity, and one of the pillars of mythology. Because of its association with the goddess and its symbols, emerald represented (and still does to this day) love and good fortune, as well as prosperity in romantic relationships.

In the Bible, emerald is often viewed as a symbol of eternal life and resurrection. It is associated with God's promises and is mentioned in Revelations. The mention of emerald in Revelation 4:3 describes the appearance of God's throne, where an emerald rainbow surrounds it, symbolizing God's glory and eternal reign.

Emeralds have always held a place in mythology. It was believed that the green of Emeralds soothed the eyes, and vision was restored when gazing upon them. It is reported that Emeralds were used by early stone-cutters to rest their eyes.

To the naked eye, emerald is usually dark green or blue-green. Using a jeweler's magnifying glass, look at the emerald through an oblique light beam to find inclusions. If the stone produces flashes of light or a rainbow, it is not an emerald. If the edges of the facets of the stone are flayed, it is not an emerald.

Spiritual Meaning

Through time, the emerald has been known as a symbol of truth and love. In ancient Greece and Rome, emerald was said to be the gemstone of the goddess Venus, purveyor of love and hope.

Boosted Mental Clarity. Emeralds have a unique ability to enhance mental clarity and focus. They are thought to clear mental fog, increase intellectual acumen, and promote better decision-making. If you find yourself struggling with concentration or indecisiveness, wearing an emerald may help you regain mental clarity.

Centuries ago, it was linked to the goddess Venus. Many people have given emerald jewelry as gifts to their romantic partners. Other folklore has stated that emeralds relieved issues in muscles, eyes, the spine, and the chest area. It was believed to have rejuvenating properties.

Which god is associated with emerald? ›

Emerald is also associated with the eighth planet Mercury in the Solar System. Lord Budha (Devanagari: बुध ) (Tamil: புதன்) is considered as the god of the planet Mercury. According to Hindu mythology Lord Budha is considered as one among the nine Navagrahas. He represents green color and gemstone emerald.

Emerald is a life-affirming stone. It opens the heart chakra and calms the emotions. It provides inspiration, balance, wisdom, and patience. It is said to promote friendship, peace, harmony, and domestic bliss by enabling the wearer to both give and receive unconditional love.

Emeralds hold a unique distinction in the world of gemstones as they are one of the four traditionally considered to be precious. Along with diamonds, rubies and sapphires, the emerald has a long history as a sought after gem thanks to its unique green color and relative rarity.

The ancients considered these gemstones sacred symbols of fertility and immortality. Reportedly, Cleopatra adorned herself and her palace with emeralds and also gave them as gifts to foreign dignitaries. Most likely, she intended this as a display of wealth and power.

Emeralds hold a unique distinction in the world of gemstones as they are one of the four traditionally considered to be precious. Along with diamonds, rubies and sapphires, the emerald has a long history as a sought after gem thanks to its unique green color and relative rarity.

At approximately 20 times rarer than diamonds, emeralds cost more in price. Even though diamonds pose as the rarest and most expensive gemstones, the fact is contrary to this notion. Emeralds cost more than diamonds, as they are 20 times rarer.

As the birthstone for May, the emerald, a symbol of rebirth, is believed to grant the owner foresight, good fortune, and youth. Emerald, derived from the word “smaragdus,” means, quite literally, “green” in Greek.

The history of emerald green

The name “emerald green” was first used in 1598. The color is named after the typical shade of an emerald gemstone. Emerald green was particularly popular in the 1800s and was commonly used as an artists' paint, household paint and in clothes dye.