May Birthstone - Emerald

Several famous historical artifacts were made of emeralds. Among them was the crown of Andes, said to be worn by the last king of Peru, who was taken prisoner by Conquistador Pizzaro in 1532. The crown was said to be set with 453 emeralds, collectively weighing 10 ounces (1523 carats).

There are many myths associated with the emerald. The stone was once believed to prevent epilepsy, stop bleeding, cure dysentery and fever, and protect the wearer from panic. Its magnificent green color was said to rest and relieve the eye. To the ancient Romans, emeralds were dedicated to the goddess Venus because it symbolized reproductive forces of nature. In the Middle Ages, emeralds were believed to hold the power to predict the future.

Emeralds vary in color from light to deep green. The emerald belongs to the beryl family of minerals, which includes aquamarine, the March birthstone.

 

Links: EMG Creations, Pandora Jewelry