Emerald Gem Stone Information

Emeralds have been a prized gemstone for more than 6,000 years. An ancient Egyptian emerald mine provided Cleopatra with emeralds, which were reportedly her favorite jewels.

Name

According to Indian tradition, the name "emerald" came from the ancient Sanskrit word "marakata," which translates to the "green of growing things."

Value

The clearest, most perfect emeralds are more valuable than diamonds, carat for carat.

Earliest Reference

Greek philosopher Aristotle was the first to write about emeralds, which he believed could prevent sickness when worn around the neck.

Lost Riches

After conquering Mexico, Hernando Cortes loaded one of his ships bound for Spain with hundreds of dollars worth of emeralds. The treasure was lost when the ship sunk.

Birthstone

The emerald is the birthstone for those born in May.

Famous Ties

Queen Elizabeth II, Marlene Dietrich, Jackie Kennedy and Elizabeth Taylor all favored emeralds.

References

• History and Lore of Emerald