Emerald

Emerald is the birthstone for May and the anniversary gemstone for the twentieth year and thirtyfifth year of marriage, the perfect emblem of an enduring love. Scientists believe that the human eye is more sensitive to the color green than to any other. Perhaps that is why green is so soothing to the eye.

Choosing An Emerald -The inclusions of an emerald are like a fingerprint, giving each emerald a distinct personality. The color that is so prized in emeralds make visible inclusions accepted in return for the incomparable color.The extreme rarity of transparent emerald is why emeralds can be more valuable than diamonds. Emerald is a beryl, a mineral that is normally colorless. Emerald's rich green color is caused by minute traces of chromium. When choosing an emerald, the most important factor to consider is color. The more vivid the green, the more valuable the emerald.

Origin & Mining - The first known Emerald mines were in southern Egypt and show evidence of being worked since 2000 BC. Brazil now produces more emeralds than any other country. Other potentially important producers of emerald are Pakistan, Afghanistan, Madagascar, Nigeria, and russia. Emeralds are cut in Jaipur, India and Tel-Aviv. Emerald is one of the most difficult gemstones to cut because of the high value of the rough stone and the many inclusions found in crystals.

Folklore -Because the rich green color of emerald is the color of spring, the ancients prized it as the gemstone symbolizing love and rebirth. Mummies in ancient Egypt were often buried with an emerald. The stone also was prized in ancient Rome, where many Roman citizens wore Emerald jewelry, some of which has survived to this day. Emerald was used in the Middle Ages to foretell the future and was thought to ward off evil sorcery and cure demonic possession. It was also believed to be a symbol of faith and loyal friendship. The gem was closely associated with love, and with contentment in marriage. Its calming, healing nature in legends is evidentially a result of its soothing color.

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Aquamarine

Aquamarine is one of the traditional birthstones for March. It is also the accepted anniversary gem for the 19th year marriage.

Choosing An Aquamarine - The ideal color of aquamarine is a refreshing sea blue; not too pale or too green. If you are looking for a big, durable gemstone, aqua is readily available in larger sizes and is truly dramatic when cut in rectangular or oval shapes.

Origin & Mining - Aquamarine is found in Brazil, Zambia, Mozambique, Angola, Nigeria, and other countries. It is always a pastel blue but the darker the color, the more valued it is. Because the color is generally pale, aquamarine should have good clarity.

Folklore - Aquamarine, the gem of the sea is Greek for the word sea water. In ancient times, the stone was said to aid seafarers. It was believed to ensure safe and prosperous voyages upon the sea, and to guard against storms. It is a universal symbol of youth, hope and health. It was thought to be the symbol of happiness and everlasting youth, to bring victory in battle and in legal disputes, and to re-awaken love in long-married couples. It was believed to protect against poisoning and relieve toothaches. People have used Aquamarine in ceremonies in the belief that it would bring rain when needed, or visit drought upon their enemies. A dream of aquamarine means that you will meet new friends.

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