May Birthstone Infographic Emerald Jewelry

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Emerald May Birthstone

History:
The name emerald is derived from a Persian word meaning "green gem." It was discovered in Egyptian mines dating back to 2000 B.C. Emeralds are a precious gem associated with the goddess Venus.

Facts & Figures:
It is said that Cleopatra loved her emerald jewelry the best. A gift of emerald is thought to be symbolic of love & the desire for a loved one's safe travel & speedy homecoming. The emerald is May's Birthstone for the zodiac signs Taurus & Gemini.

Healing Properties:
Emeralds are commonly believed to aid in fertility. They ensure physical, emotional & mental equilibrium. Emeralds have been used to treat disorders of the heart, lungs, spine & muscular system.

Color:
Emerald, a green gemstone, differs in shine & color depending on where it's found. The Colombian emerald has the characteristic vivid, slightly bluish green tones of medium-to-medium dark color.

Characteristics:
An emerald is 7.5 out of 10 on the Mohs scale of hardness. Emeralds belong to the beryl mineral family. They are often coated with oil to enhance the clarity. A good quality emerald can be as or even more expensive than a fine diamond of the same carat.

Jewelry
Emeralds are one of the most popular gemstones in jewelry design. Set in silver or gold, emerald jewelry is a mesmerizing and captivating addition to a collection. Emeralds are considered the traditional gift for the 55th wedding anniversary.

Care & Handling:
Clean your emerald jewelry with lukewarm water, a very mild soap and a soft cloth. Avoid sudden temperature changes. Rinse and dry thoroughly after cleaning.