Bloom into Spring with the Gemstone for May

May’s gemstone embodies the perfect color for spring. Rich in color and texture, the emerald brings wonder to many. Given for 20^th and 35^th wedding anniversaries, emerald birthstones also represent renewed love and hope. This stone is sure to turn heads with its deep and vibrant green hue, which lures its recipients into a sense of fascination and delight. Throughout the history of the world, the emerald has gained popularity as a regal stone.

The Gemstone for May

The word emerald comes from the ancient Greek word, “smaragdos,” which means green gem. It has long been believed that staring at the color green can relieve stress and eye strain. Because of this, many people groups have hailed the emerald as a stone of restoration and healing.

The world’s most valuable emeralds are mined in Columbia. Emeralds are also found in Brazil, Africa, Zambia, Pakistan, and Afghanistan. These gemstones are typically found embedded in rocks. They are mined in a variety of ways including cutting through mica schist rock, water blasting inside open pits, and using a pickax inside tunnels. Emeralds can also be laboratory-grown, using processes that allow the crystals to grow synthetically.

To preserve the quality of life for an emerald, certain precautions must be taken:

Keep your emeralds out of the heat. This includes hot water.
Do not use chemicals and cleaning products near or on an emerald.
Avoid pressure changes while wearing an emerald. This would include not bringing your emeralds on an airplane.
Do not use an ultrasonic cleaner for your emerald gemstones. Mild soap, a soft brush, and lukewarm water is all you need to clean these stones.

Fast Facts About Emerald Gemstones

Cleopatra apparently had an affinity for emerald gemstones and adorned herself in them.
The color of an emerald determines its value. According to the GIA, “The most desirable emerald colors are bluish green to pure green, with vivid color saturation and tone that’s not too dark. The most-prized emeralds are highly transparent.” *
To enhance their color, lighter emeralds are dyed green.
The majority of emeralds have inclusions. Emeralds without any inclusions are extremely rare.
Even though emeralds can be considered delicate, the use of dynamite can still be commonplace in mining.
Miners, especially in places like Columbia, must be flown in and out of the mines via helicopter to avoid potential violence from smugglers and guerrillas.
Emeralds belong to the mineral variety called beryl. Other gemstones that come from beryl include morganite, heliodor, aquamarine, and pezzottaite.
It has been said that placing an emerald under the tongue can help with intuition and clairvoyance.
The “Emerald Buddha,” located in Thailand is not actually emerald, rather jade.
The Emerald Unguentarium is one of the world’s largest emeralds. It’s a 2,860-ct emerald vase that was carved in 1641. It’s on display in the Imperial Treasury, Vienna, Austria.

Whether you love the color green, or simply appreciate an emerald for its stunning appearance and representation, May’s gemstone is one to marvel at.

Looking for a one-of-a-kind emerald item? You can count on us. With an extensive and exclusive selection of gemstones and fine jewelry, Munchel’s Fine Jewelry can help you eliminate the guesswork and find the perfect piece.

*Information quoted and sourced from the GIA, 2023.

About Munchel’s Fine Jewelry

Munchel’s Fine Jewelry Inc. is a family owned and operated business. We have been proudly serving Central Florida with quality jewelry and services for over 30 years. Our commitment and dedication to our customers is what sets us apart. We offer a large selection of jewelry and collectible items, including coins, watches, lockets, and necklaces. In addition, we also buy, sell, and trade many types of timeless pieces. For more information, please contact us at (863) 619-6269 or visit our website at Munchels.com/.