The gemstone for May is the emerald. It is a symbol of rebirth, is believed to grant the owner foresight, good fortune and youth. Emerald, derived from the word “smaragdus” means literally green in Greek.
Emeralds were mined in Egypt as early as 330 BC. Egyptians used the gem in both jewelry and burying stones with monarchs as symbols of protection. Cleopatra is perhaps the most famous historical person to cherish the gemstone. The oldest emerald are estimated to be almost 3 billion years old.
Like diamonds and other gemstones, emeralds are judged according to the 4 C’s, clarity, color, karat and cut. Vibrancy of color and saturation are valued factors.
