30/04/2026
Introducing Emerald. The birthstone for May. Happy birthday to Midge Gibbs, Kaylene Nies and Cameron McLay
Emerald is composed of beryllium, aluminium, silicon, and oxygen. These elements result in emerald crystallising within the hexagonal system, exhibiting a six-sided form. On the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, emerald has a rating between 7.5 and 8.
Emerald’s have captivated us for thousands of years. One of the earliest mines now known as the Cleopatra Mine, is thought to have been in operation as early as 2000 BCE in northern Egypt, near the Red Sea. Ancient Egyptians believed that emeralds symbolised fertility and rebirth, often burying them with their pharaohs as powerful talismans.
In South America prior to the arrival of the Spanish conquistadors, the Incas and Aztecs adorned themselves with emerald and also regarded them as sacred stones.
In more recent history emerald has been viewed as the traditional birthstone for May. In the northern hemisphere this relates to spring, a time of renewal and growth. It is also the traditional gem for both the 20th and 35th wedding anniversary. Seen as a symbol of love, commitment and vitality of a long-lasting partnership.
Emerald primarily forms in either magmatic or metamorphic hydrothermal deposits. In both situations hydrothermal fluids combine solutions rich in beryllium, chromium or vanadium creating the perfect environment for emerald crystallisation.
The diverse geological environments in which emerald can be found contributes to the unique characteristics of emeralds. These include its depth of colour, clarity and presence of imperfections. This acts as a Geographic signature that can be used to identify the stones origin.
Globally Columbia is renowned for producing some of the world's finest emeralds. They are particularly prized for their vivid green colour and exceptional clarity. Zambia has also emerged as a significant source of high-quality emerald. Brazil is another key player in the global emerald market, offering a range of qualities and sizes. Brazil produced one of the most famous, or maybe infamous, emeralds in recent history.
The Bahia Emerald stands as a geological marvel weighing 341 kg, containing over 180,000 carats of precious green gemstone. This colossal treasure, estimated to be worth up to $400 million, has sparked international disputes and legal battles that continue to this day. Unlike typical emeralds found in jewellery, this massive specimen resembles a green-black totem that has captivated the imagination of gem enthusiasts worldwide. There are even whispers of a curse surrounding I, bringing misfortune to whoever tries to claim it. It's been lost, stolen, even submerged underwater during a hurricane.
Other emerging notable sources contributing to global supply include Russia and discoveries in the Yukon Territory in Canada.
Emerald has been recognised for centuries across various cultures for its purported health benefits. For example, ancient Egyptians regarded it as a symbol of fertility, while the Aztecs associated it with seasonal renewal. In Europe, emerald was historically believed to cure dysentery, protect the chastity of its wearer, and alleviate panic. Presently, it is still thought by some to enhance fertility and eyesight, promote kindness and tranquillity, and support the heart chakra.
People often ask me if crystal healing actually works. While there is no scientific proof to support it, I believe it's up to each of us to decide for ourselves. My mum and I have run Crystal Kingdom for almost three years now. Before this, I was not a believer at all. Over time, though, I've developed my own belief system on the subject, just as many people do in a religion or way of living. That forms the basis of my answer. If you trust in crystal healing and feel you've benefited in terms of health or wellbeing, then perhaps it does.
I have been looking forward to discussing emerald as May's birthstone. Although I have traditionally not favoured the colour green, including my own birthstone peridot (watch out for August), emerald stands out as a remarkable exception. Its formation within the Earth evokes a sense of fascination and curiosity due to its geological significance. For me emerald represents strength, guidance, and wisdom. Emerald has certainly had a positive impact on my life.
PS. It is also claimed that emerald helps to improve a bad temper. I’m sure my children would say that emerald has not helped in that sense 😊
