Rich verdant hues characterize the valuable emerald. This gem has been treasured for 5000 years, although the lush greens we know today were not known outside of the Americas until the 1500’s when huge quantities of Colombian emeralds were taken to Europe during the Spanish invasion. An ancient symbol of rebirth, spring, and eternal youth, emeralds carved with emblems of regeneration have been found around the necks of Egyptian mummies to aid their new beginning in the next life. Intensely hued gems often have unique inclusions within the stone that enhance their beauty--these are referred to as jardin (French for ‘garden’) to describe their plant-like appearance. May’s birthstone, emeralds have been reflective of life and love in many cultures and is associated with the 20th and 35th wedding anniversaries. Rare milestones call for rare rewards.
