Emerald is a stone of rare beauty and is considered a symbol of hope, wisdom and insight. It has many names. So, in French the stone was called emerald, and the ancient Slavs called it emerald. Emerald refers to gemstones that have a green tint.
Emerald is a stone that has a spectacular appearance.
Story
The magical emerald was valued and revered in the ancient world.
The Egyptians considered it a symbol of the goddess Isis, the patroness of femininity and motherhood. Mothers who tirelessly prayed for their children received emerald branches as a gift from her. In the emerald mines of Queen Cleopatra, gems were mined for the wives of high priests and representatives of high castes. “Stone of Radiance” is what this mineral was called in Ancient Greece.
In Persia, "zumurrud" meant "green stone." Through this Persian word and the Turkish “zumrut” the name “emerald” appeared in the Russian language. Previously in Rus' this mineral was called emerald. In English-speaking countries, the name of the mineral is emerald.
On the breastplate of the high priest of Judea, the gem occupied an honorable third place.
In Islamic countries, the magical properties of emerald were valued; it was an important attribute in occult practices.
Emerald has an ambiguous meaning among Christians. On the one hand, it is related to dark forces, since the Old Testament says that when Lucifer was expelled to Earth, a stone fell out of his helmet. On the other hand, it is the embodiment of the forces of light, because the Holy Grail is made from it.
There was a belief that if you show this gem to a snake, tears will flow from its eyes. The color of the stone reminded of a blooming paradise, and it was bitter for the snake to remember its sin.
Emeralds appeared in European countries in the 16th century , when conquistadors brought gems captured from the Indians. They were transported to the Old World in huge numbers. Not long ago, off the coast of Florida, divers found almost 2,300 emeralds in the early 17th century .
Previously, sailors took emerald with them on voyages, believing that it protected them from dangers.
During the Renaissance, newlyweds exchanged rings with emeralds, as they believed that these gems would provide them with a permanent feeling of love. They were believed to favor pregnant women.
In 1831, these gems were discovered in the Urals and the deposits began to be actively developed. Nowadays in Russia, emeralds have a currency value, as determined by law.
Characteristics of emerald
Emerald is a green variety of beryl.
Sometimes the main color is complemented by yellow or blue shades. It is formed as a result of the process of destruction of granite rocks due to exposure to hot water from thermal springs.
If a stone is heated to 700°C , it may become discolored.
- Chemical formula: Be3Al2Si3O18 .
- Impurities - Fe2O3, V2O3, Cr2O3 .
- Color - green, bluish and yellowish-green.
- The color of the line is white.
- The shine is glassy.
- Transparency - transparent, translucent.
- Hardness - 7,5–8,0.
- Cleavage is imperfect.
- The fracture is conchoidal and uneven.
- Density - 2.69–2.78 g / cm3 .
The hardness of emerald gradually increases, so geologists believe that it, like a stone, is not yet “ripe.”
The mineral is used to create not only jewelry, but also solid-state lasers.
Types of gem
Emeralds are very different, although at first glance they are all similar. The “gold standard” is the green emerald, and most gems really are like that. However, sometimes impurities of iron, manganese or calcium create bizarre variations.
- Rainbow emerald, also known as the “Brazilian emerald,” is a dark green stone that is quite rare in nature.
- Gems with a yellow tint are sometimes found in Indian deposits.
- Colombia is famous for its greenish-blue crystals, similar to sea waves.
Emerald is the most valuable variety of beryl, so many unscrupulous sellers pass off cheaper minerals that resemble this stone in color.
Place of Birth
Emeralds are periodically found in many regions of the planet, but in limited quantities, and high-quality specimens are extremely rare.
The leader in the world market for these gems is Colombia. The largest stones come from there. Some mines were developed by the Incas. Colombian gems are mined not only with a shovel and pickaxe, but also with weapons. Fights between groups of miners for the richest veins are not uncommon. In addition, businessmen of the “emerald mafia” are engaged in illegal mining, export abroad and counterfeiting of gems.
Emeralds are also mined in Brazil, Russia, Zambia, and Afghanistan.
Currently, there is only one emerald deposit left in the Urals - Malyshevskoye. It is being developed by the Ural Gem Company. The stones that it supplies to the market undergo only primary processing and preserve the beauty inherent in nature.
One of the largest crystals (3600 carats) was found in Madagascar. A Buddha figurine was made from it, and it was called the “Emerald Buddha”.
Colors and varieties
Red emerald, blue emerald - you may have heard these definitions of the stone. In reality, there are no such gems. In the first case, it is bixbite (a type of beryl), and in the second, it is an artificial specimen or also beryl. Black emerald also does not exist, which is what a very dark green specimen is sometimes called.
So what color is emerald? The main, “branded” one is green. The range of shades is from light to dark green. There may be tints of blue and yellow at the same time.
To imagine what a standard-quality emerald looks like, pay attention to the description of the first variety of emerald:
- Colombian - have standard quality, transparency, grass-green color and a minimum of defects; There are samples called “trapiche”, they have six rays radiating from the center, like spokes in a wheel.
- Brazilian ones are cleaner and lighter than Colombian ones, the color is yellowish-green.
- Zambian - very beautiful, transparency and purity are ideal, darker than Colombian; sometimes there is a yellowish or bluish tint.
- Zimbabwean - the yellow tint is combined with green, which is highly valued by jewelers.
- South African - light but cloudy; cabochons are made from them; mined in South Africa.
- Russian (Ural) - large, opaque; The color is deep green due to the high content of chromium and iron.
Where is it mined now?
There are quite a few deposits of emerald stones:
- Colombian crystals are considered the highest quality. They include small particles of fluorite or calcite. Such stones contain gas, solid and liquid elements. They are characterized by high quality and rich color. There are practically no defects in the structure.
- The crystals that are found in the Urals have a bright green color. The unusual color scheme indicates the presence of iron and chromium in the structure.
- Brazilian stones are characterized by gray and brown colors. Such shades are associated with the presence of vanadium in the composition.
- Zambian gems have a bluish color. It is associated with inclusions of iron.
- Crystals mined in Zimbabwe are characterized by a deep dark color. Their distinctive feature is the presence of tremolite in the structure.
The main property of Brazilian stones is considered to be a grayish tint.
Artificial emerald
“Nanoemerald”, “hydrothermal” - these terms applied to the gem mean that it was obtained in laboratory conditions. The crystal growth cycle is one month.
“Igmerald” was the name of the first artificial emerald, created in 1935 in Germany. In 1937, mass production of such gems began in the USA.
The latest generation artificial emerald stone is superior to natural stone in purity, strength, size, and color saturation.
Russian-Thai specialists have synthesized an emerald that is identical in composition to the Colombian one.
Artificial emeralds are used both for jewelry and in quantum electronics.
Medicinal properties
Treatment using minerals has been practiced since ancient times. Healers and lithotherapists agree on emerald and recognize its beneficial effects on health.
This mineral has a complex effect on the body:
- stabilizes blood pressure;
- relieves headaches, migraines (especially if you wear earrings with emerald);
- heals joints;
- soothes stomach pain;
- normalizes metabolism and hormonal levels;
- calms nerves, banishes insomnia.
Emerald has antibacterial properties, so it purifies water well. It is believed that if a pebble has lain in water all night, it can be drunk unboiled, and also washed with dermatological problems.
Some people claim that they have improved their vision by applying for 15–20 minutes .
A natural stone that has not undergone additional processing heals more effectively than a cut one.
It is believed that someone who wears an emerald constantly is always in a good mood and will become a long-liver.
Magic properties
Emerald is a stone that values morality in people. According to people who understand magic, the task of an emerald is to rid its owner of bad inclinations (if any). This stone values morality in people and does not accept adventurism, deceit, infidelity, and betrayal. If a person wears this gem on his body for 2–3 months without taking it off, then bad inclinations and habits will disappear.
If the owner of the stone does not have negative character traits, then the emerald will become for him a source of good luck, health and support in good deeds.
The gem has the power to cleanse the owner’s biofield and destroy the negative energy of not only a person, but also his home.
The magic of emerald has a positive effect on:
- on the atmosphere in the house (protects love, mutual understanding);
- on the relationship of lovers (protects against infidelity, maintains the intensity of feelings);
- for girls (protects you from temptations and in the future will help you become a worthy wife and mother);
- for people endowed with intuition (will help develop superpowers);
- on travelers and sailors who believe in the gem’s ability to calm storms;
- for creative people (activates inspiration, helps implement projects);
- for business people (a green stone talisman will attract good luck).
Esotericists claim that this stone gives divinatory abilities and sends dreams that come true.
An emerald received as a gift will promote good luck and a bright mood.
In order for the emerald to protect the house and its inhabitants from negative energies and dark forces, the gem must be placed in a specially designated secluded place.
It is believed that only a strong-willed person who is determined to go through life the right way can get along with this gem. If this is not the case, then you should choose another stone as an amulet or talisman.
Emerald actively fights such qualities of the owner as deceit and infidelity. If the stone is unable to withstand them, it may break. An emerald set in gold is especially effective in protecting the owner from infidelity and lies.
Who is suitable according to their zodiac sign?
The influence of planets on people's lives is studied by astrologers. Vedic astrology also talks about wearing stones. It says about emerald that it is under the influence of the planet Mercury. The person wearing the gem also finds himself under the influence of this celestial body. Knowledge, science, inventions, trade, success in work - Mercury is responsible for all these aspects of life. Therefore, the owner of an emerald, as a rule, has a desire for knowledge and high intelligence.
Astrologers have established that according to the horoscope, emerald is not suitable for all zodiac signs: for Scorpio . But if the stone is prohibited, you can still occasionally wear jewelry with it, for example, to important business meetings. And other gems are suitable as an amulet or talisman for Scorpio: moonstone, topaz, garnet, opal, aquamarine, alexandrite, labradorite, carnelian, sarder.
It is believed that emerald is a lucky stone for Aries, Taurus, Gemini, and Cancer.
- Aries. A coldish crystal will restrain his excessive impulsiveness; this person will develop caution and the habit of thinking first and only then acting. Aries, a fighter by nature, will restrain his energy until he finds out who is right and who is wrong, and only then will he enter the fight.
- Calf. A persistent and patient owner of the stone will achieve his goals especially quickly with its help. The life of Taurus will become more interesting and vibrant, there will be many joyful moments. Intuition will strengthen, memory will strengthen, and concentration on completing the task will be strengthened.
- Twins. Emerald will help them strengthen their spirit, make them wiser and more composure. If a person is overly impressionable and unsure of himself, an emerald talisman will give him confidence and a philosophical view of difficult situations. Therefore, single people will be able to find a mate, and married people will not experience unreasonable jealousy.
- Cancer. For him, emerald is a very happy talisman that will give peace and harmony to the soul. Excessive sensitivity to external influences and indecisiveness will decrease. There will be emancipation in the expression of feelings, communication will bring joy, new friends and allies will support any undertaking of Cancer.
- Leo , despite his independent character, really needs the support of honest and decent people. Emerald amulets will provide representatives of this sign with understanding of both friends and household members, and will also protect them from enemies and the negative energy of evil individuals.
- Virgo is often skeptical about everything, since she is used to analyzing everything, and the conclusions are pessimistic. An emerald talisman will help such a person treat life and people with great trust, be lenient towards the shortcomings of others, and enjoy every moment of life.
- Libra will experience the friendliness of this stone. He will be their ally in business and will help them pay attention to the circumstances that need to be taken into account in order to achieve success.
- Sagittarius. The gem will help you get rid of too much ambition and peremptory nature in your speeches and actions. Sagittarius, showing restraint and moderating the desire to surpass others, will stop making new enemies.
- Capricorn. The gem promotes the rapid perception of new theories, which is necessary for Capricorn, who reveres intelligence above all qualities. Some astrologers recommend that this sign does not wear emerald very often.
- Aquarius , due to its hypersensitivity, especially needs the support of friends and family. Emerald will provide such help and protect from ill-wishers; will contribute to the manifestation of the active principle inherent in the character of Aquarius. This will help develop a sense of self-confidence, which is necessary to achieve success.
- Pisces are prone to trade by nature. Emerald can ensure success in this type of activity, because it is under the influence of Mercury, which is the patron of trade. In addition, the stone will help you receive real, sincere support from family and friends and will ensure peace of mind in the family, which Pisces greatly appreciates.
Auspicious names
Emerald is a symbol for people with names under the auspices of the planet Mercury.
Among the women are: Anastasia, Ekaterina, Evgenia, Yulia, Vasilisa, Veronica, Emma, Natalia, Marfa, Svetlana.
Wearing a gem will be favorable for men with the following names: David, Konstantin, Vitaly, Daniil, Bogdan, Stanislav, Philip, Gennady, Yuri and Pavel.
How to wear
Most items with emerald are rings, rings, necklaces, and earrings. It is worth buying a set of such jewelry as it looks stylish. In addition, in this case, the stones will have a greater impact on the owner.
Rings and rings with this gem are best worn on the ring finger or little finger.
In an outfit, a bright green stone should be the highlight: you should not match it with an outfit of the same color and do makeup in those colors.
Emerald goes well with sapphire or ruby. A scattering of diamonds around an emerald in platinum or gold looks very impressive.
Men's assortment of jewelry with this gem - a massive silver or platinum ring, cufflinks with a rectangular translucent stone, a tie clip.
Jewelry
The amazing beauty of emerald inspires jewelers to create real masterpieces. Natural stones of high quality are usually framed in a precious metal, while synthesized or pale colored ones are framed in a semi-precious one. Thanks to this differentiation, a person with any budget finds suitable options for himself.
Jewelers came up with a special type of cut - emerald. Specimens with low transparency are also cut into cabochons.
This stone most often appears alone or is adjacent to white transparent inserts - diamonds, rock crystal, cubic zirconia. As a decoration, emerald is suitable for women of any type, invariably emphasizing the brightness of the eyes and visually refreshing the complexion. He looks noble and respectable, cheerful and expressive, but discreet. This universally beautiful stone is equally suitable for evening, business, romantic and youth styles.
How to care
Emerald is highly durable and difficult to damage at home. But you need to take into account that this pebble loves coolness, darkness and has a negative attitude towards water, household chemicals, and cosmetics.
Rules of care:
- Be sure to remove jewelry before doing housework (cooking, washing, cleaning).
- You need to put them on after applying makeup: cosmetics are destructive to gemstones.
- If the stone becomes dirty, wash it in warm soapy water, or lightly rub it with a soft brush or cloth.
- A special protective layer for the gem is useful - it is applied in a jewelry workshop.
- Jewelry should be stored in a strong, closed box or casket.
STRUCTURE
Emerald belongs to the hexagonal system of the dihexanal-bipyramidal symmetry class. Impurities of chromium 1-2%, sodium, potassium, lithium, cesium, rubidium, iron, vanadium are noted. The main motif of the framework structure of beryl is represented by the six-wheel structures of the SiO4 ring - tetrahedra - Si6O18, connected to each other by BeO4 - tetrahedra in hexagonal columns with large channels inside such columns. These columns are connected to each other by BeO4 - tetrahedra and AlO6 - octahedra.
How to distinguish from a fake
Artificial minerals are sold as "igmeralds", but sometimes this is not indicated, then they can be mistaken for natural ones. Instead of emerald, they also offer glass fakes and ennobled stones: peridot, corundum, verdelite, tourmaline, jadeite, zircon, chrysoberyl, citrine.
It is not difficult to recognize an artificial imitation; to do this, you need to know what an emerald looks like. The instance is checked according to the following parameters:
- Color. Emerald is always green, often muted. Bottle or marsh color means fake, light shade means beryl, and diamond-like shine means synthetic.
- Pleochroism (trichroism). It is distinct in emerald: when turned at different angles, the color changes from green and bluish-green to yellowish-green.
- Edges. In natural stone they are sharp and clear, while in glass fakes they are smoothed.
- Internal structure. In a natural mineral it is uniform and homogeneous. Minor internal defects and cracks are typical for large specimens. Layering is a sign of a fake.
- Exposure to filtered ultraviolet light. Real stones usually do not react to such radiation, but artificial ones glow brownish-orange or chestnut-brown. But this method is inaccurate, as some natural emeralds can also react to ultraviolet light.
- Chelsea color filter. An emerald will look reddish or pink, a synthetic one will look red, and a fake one will look green.
Peridot (evening emerald) turns yellow during the day, and turns green under artificial light.
Natural emerald does not darken when placed in water or exposed to the sun for a long time.
If there is a suspicion that you have purchased an unknown mineral, refined with colored resins to give it an emerald color, then only an experienced jeweler or specialist in the instrument room can find out for sure.
If the emerald is ennobled with colored resins, but you want it to regain its true color, you can put the stone in a detergent solution. The natural color will appear after the filler has dissolved.
Price
Emerald is evaluated based on several factors, but the first places are the color and the country where it was mined. The highest price is for gems from Colombia; analogues from Afghanistan and Brazil are a third cheaper.
If we compare the price of stones of different colors, the most expensive ones are bright green. Even if they have minor defects, they are valued higher than pale transparent specimens without cracks or inclusions:
- bright green - $ 2000;
- pale - $ 500;
- artificial - $ 200.
Based on Russian standards, the description of the color of emerald involves 5 groups. This is indicated on the tags on the jewelry (the highest rating is 5).
When evaluating a stone, weight is also taken into account - the heavier, the more expensive.
Stone sizes (in carats):
- up to 0.49 - small;
- from 0.5 to 1 - average;
- from 1 to 10 - large;
- over 10 are very large.
Prices for top quality emeralds (per 1 carat) :
| Weight (carats) | Price (in dollars) |
| 0,01–0,99 | 700–3500 |
| 1,00–2,99 | 4000–7000 |
| 3–5,99 | 6000–9500 |
| 6–15,00 | 8000–13000 |
Connoisseurs of jewelry stones consider the optimal weight for an emerald to be 6 carats , and such a specimen is valued very expensively.
Collectors value rough stones more. In jewelry, the cost is greatly influenced by the quality of processing and cutting. Typically, stepwise (emerald) processing is applied to this mineral, and cabochons are made from cloudy specimens with defects.
Read also : Spinel is a stone is an impostor against its will
Compatibility with other minerals
Being a mineral of the air element, emerald does not combine well with Water stones: opal, pearl, topaz, amethyst, heliotrope, alexandrite.
In jewelry, cut emerald is ideally combined with diamonds, as well as with stones of the same category, which includes: sapphire, peridot and ruby.
Agate makes an equally harmonious pair for it.
