Emeralds; a gem of mystery and intrigue

Emeralds have enchanted civilizations for thousands of years. These gemstones are not only admired for their beauty but also revered for their spiritual significance and rich history. An elegant gem whose verdant green is easy on the eye and has long been seen as a symbol of renewal, love, and divine insight.

Natural Emerald

Emerald Crystal standing up

Biron Emerald faceted

A flourishing trade of Emerald gemstone treasures

The earliest known Emeralds were mined in Egypt around 1500 BCE.  These beautiful gems were said to be adored by Cleopatra, who claimed the gem for her royal signature.  The old mines were know as “Cleopatra’s Mines.” A flourishing trade of Emeralds where exchanged alongside silk, spices, and other precious goods through well established routes along the Silk Road.

Mining was also established in South America, long before the arrival of the Spanish conquistadors. The Muzo people were mining Emeralds of exquisite quality with unmatched skills.

When the Spanish "discovered" these mines in the 16th century, the brilliance and quality of Colombian Emeralds quickly became the standard of excellence in Europe and beyond, with Kings, Queens, Shahs, Maharajas and Sultans amassing lustrous bejewelled collections and treasures. Napoleon III went onto make emerald green the imperial colour, fueling a insatiable demand in France between 1855 - 1871.

Natural Emerald, Sapphire and Diamond ring

Emeralds are sacred, mystical and rich in symbolism

Across cultures, Emeralds have held powerful symbolic meanings. In ancient Rome, the gem was associated with Venus the goddess of love, making it a talisman for romance and fidelity. The Incas and Aztecs viewed Emeralds as sacred stones, often used in rituals and offered to the their Gods. In Hindu mythology, Emeralds were linked to Mercury and thought to bring wisdom and prosperity. Medieval lore looked to Emeralds to protect against evil spells, reveal truth, and were supposed to assist in the curing of disease.

Gilson Emeralds bring the joy of Emerald both in colour, without the "jardin" effect

Perfecting methods to cultivate Emeralds

Creating synthetic emeralds involves a meticulous process to replicate the natural conditions under which Emeralds form. Research reached a critical level in the 1920s and 1930s with Inventors, Scientists, and Gemmologists advancing their techniques as crystal growers, by finally achieving the cultivation of gem-like quality material big enough to be successfully faceted.

Today, many synthetic Emeralds are usually a deep-coloured hue that is associated with the best quality natural Emerald.

If you found my journal note on Emeralds interesting, we'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments below. Additionally, if you are looking for a quality Emerald, we can source these and design a bespoke jewel especially for you.