Emeralds have captivated humanity for centuries with their mesmerizing green hue and remarkable beauty. Known as the birthstone for May and a symbol of love and prosperity, emeralds have a rich history and hold a unique place in the world of gemstones. There are lots of untold stories and folklore about this mesmerizing gemstone. In this article, we will delve into five surprising facts about emeralds that will enhance your appreciation for these precious gems.

1. Emeralds are Rarer than You Think

While emeralds are widely recognized as one of the most valuable gemstones, their rarity is often underestimated. Unlike diamonds, which can be found in various locations around the world, emerald deposits are much more limited. The most significant deposits are found in Colombia, Zambia and Brazil. It takes a perfect combination of different geological conditions for emeralds to form, including specific temperature, pressure and chemical conditions. This rarity contributes to their high value and allure.

2. Inclusions are Part of Their Charm

Unlike other gemstones, where inclusions are often considered flaws, emeralds are celebrated for their unique inclusions. These internal characteristics, known as jardin (French for "garden"), are delicate patterns and fractures that appear like tiny gardens. Instead of diminishing the value of the stone, these inclusions are considered part of the emerald's character and can even enhance their beauty if present in moderation. These so-called 'gardens' are a testament to the gem's natural formation process and make each emerald one-of-a-kind.

3. Cleopatra had a Passion for Emeralds

Emeralds have a long and storied history and one of their most famous admirers was Cleopatra, the legendary Queen of Egypt. Queen Cleopatra had a deep fascination with emeralds and was known for adorning herself in emerald jewelry. She believed that emeralds symbolize fertility and rebirth. She used them as powerful talismans during her reign. Cleopatra's love for emeralds has further solidified their association with beauty, power and royalty.

4. Emeralds are Associated with Healing and Protection

Beyond their aesthetic appeal, emeralds have been attributed with various healing properties and protective qualities throughout history. In ancient times, emeralds were believed to have the ability to cure ailments and protect against enchantment and evil spirits. They were also supposed to be associated with promoting emotional balance, loyalty and good fortune. While these beliefs may be rooted in ancient folklore, emeralds continue to be cherished for their perceived metaphysical properties by many individuals today.

5. Synthetic Emeralds Exist

Because of the increasing demand and limited supply of emeralds, scientists have developed methods to create emeralds in laboratories. These lab-grown emeralds are created under a controlled environment and have the same chemical composition and physical properties as natural emeralds. While synthetic emeralds are more affordable and more readily available, they lack the rarity and natural allure of their counterparts. Natural emeralds remain highly sought after due to their unique beauty and the inherent value associated with their scarcity.

Conclusion

Emeralds are much more than just exquisite gemstones; they are sparkling crystals soaked in history, mythology and symbolism. Their rarity, inclusion-filled beauty and association with powerful figures like Queen Cleopatra of Egypt make them truly remarkable. Whether you are a gemstone enthusiast, a collector or simply appreciate their stunning green hue, understanding these surprising facts about emeralds will deepen your admiration for these precious gems. Are you now planning to buy a loose emerald to admire its beauty? We recommend you explore certified loose emeralds or fine emerald jewelry on GemsNY.