|
 The
ancient Egyptians mined me nearly 4,000 years ago, and Cleopatra was an
avid collector. South America's rich bounty of Emeralds was discovered by
16th Century Spanish explorers who found large Emeralds in the
possession of the Aztecs and Incas.
Today, most of the world's Emeralds are
mined in Colombia, Brazil and Zambia, and are cut in a variety of
different shapes, ranging from the traditional rectangular step-cut,
known as the "emerald cut," to rounds, ovals, squares and
cabochons.
As one of the most revered of all
gemstones, Emerald has long been regarded as the quintessential green in
Nature. Most natural Emeralds have inclusions, often called "Jardin,"
or gardens, which are regarded as Emerald's natural birthmarks.
The birthstone for May and a talisman for
Gemini, Emerald symbolizes rebirth and youth. Believed by the ancients
to empower the owner with foresight into the future, Emerald is regarded
as an amulet for good fortune. |
