The History of Emerald
First discovered in the Egyptian mines around 330 BC, emeralds have since been found in metamorphic rocks in various locations around the world. Its soothing green colour and spiritual properties makes the May birthstone a highly sought after gem. The most treasured member of the beryl family, this enchanting stone has earned a title of “the jewel of kings”.
Loved by royalty past and present, emerald is regularly chosen to be the jewel to complete a royal ensemble. Cleopatra, Princess Diane, Queen Elizabeth and Kate Middleton have all been seen regularly wearing emerald as part of their attire. And it is no surprise when this gem offers so much natural beauty.
In its rare natural form, emeralds appearance is similar to that of shards of crystal. Its iconic green colour appears lighter than those that are lab created, giving the stone an appeasing turquoise hue. Once mined, the crystals are then cut into popular gemstone shapes ready to be crafted into the most exquisite jewellery designs.
A once rare gemstone, emerald is now commonly available due to the introduction of lab created gemstones in the early 1900’s. Possessing the same chemical, physical and optical properties as natural emeralds, the synthetic stones offers a more cost effective solution to gemstone jewellery.
Take a closer look at lab created emeralds and you will notice how the colour appears more vibrant than that of its natural counterpart. Nonetheless, whether you opt for natural or synthetic emeralds to embellish yourself with, you are sure to look and feel like royalty.
May Birthstone Jewellery
The birthstone of May, emeralds are an excellent gift to treat your loved one to for their birthday. Choose from the fantastic selection of Brazilian emeralds set into a range of classic and modern designs from QP Jewellers.
