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The luscious green color of the Emerald
can be found nowhere else in nature. It has long been
regarded as the symbol of fertility, rebirth and springtime.
The ancient Egyptians mined them nearly 4,000 years ago,
and Cleopatra was an avid collector. South America's rich
bounty of Emeralds was discovered by 16th Century Spanish
explorers who found large Emeralds in the possession of
the Aztecs and Incas.
Today, most of the world's Emeralds are mined in Colombia,
Brazil and Zambia, and are cut in a variety of different
shapes, ranging from the traditional rectangular step-cut,
known as the "emerald cut," to rounds, ovals,
squares and cabochons.
As one of the most revered of all gemstones, Emerald has
long been regarded as the quintessential green in Nature.
Most natural Emeralds have inclusions, often called "Jardin,"
or gardens, which are regarded as Emerald's natural birthmarks.
The birthstone for May and a talisman for Gemini, Emerald
symbolizes rebirth and youth. Believed by the ancients
to empower the owner with foresight into the future,
Emerald is regarded as an amulet for good fortune.
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