Emerald is a vivid greenish blue form of the mineral Beryl. It gets its vibrant colors from 3 distinct elements, Chromium and Vanadium (providing the rich green hues) as well as Iron, which gives Emerald its slight bluish undertone. The value of Emeralds is generally determined by the richness of its color, the symmetry of its natural shape and internal clarity (lack of inclusions). 

Emeralds have been used throughout history, the first mines were said to be in Egypt during 3500 BC. Cleopatra was known to have a great love for Emeralds and had many jewelry and adornments made with the green gem. It is also talked about in the bible as being the 4th stone on King Solomon’s chest plate! This stone has been treasured by many cultures and continues to be a highly sought after gemstone today. 

Emerald mines can be found all over the world but they are most commonly found in Zambia, Brazil, Zimbabwe, and Columbia. The oldest Emerald specimens were found in South Africa and were aged at 2.97 billion years old! The lush green color of Emerald has pulled the heartstrings of cultures for centuries. Ancient Rome’s Pliny the Elder had a saying about Emerald, “Nothing greens greener”. Romans believed that even just looking at this gemstone would soothe the soul and remove weariness. The name Emerald is derived from the Greek word smaragdus which means “green”, a fitting name for this particular gemstone.

Do not use crystal healing in place of your medicine/healthcare.