The History of Emerald

Emerald gemstones were mined in Egypt as early as 330 BC, but some estimate that the oldest emeralds are 2.97 billion years old.

Cleopatra is perhaps the most famous historical figure to cherish emerald gemstones. She even claimed ownership of all emerald mines in Egypt during her reign.

The Egyptians used emeralds both in jewelry and in their elaborate burials, often burying emerald stones with monarchs as symbols of protection.

On the other side of the world, the Muzo people of Colombia had well-hidden and prized emerald mines. These mines were so well hidden that it took the Spanish conquistadors nearly twenty years to find them.

Today, emeralds are a symbol of loyalty, new beginnings, peace, and security, making it not only a beautiful gem to wear, but also a meaningful jewelry present to give a loved one, especially one with a May birthday. It is still widely prized by the rich and famous. The Bvlgari emerald and diamond necklace with detachable pendant that Richard Burton bought Elizabeth Taylor while filming Cleopatra in Rome during the 1960s sold again at a Christie’s auction in 2011 for just over $6.1 million for the necklace and $6.5 million for the pendant.

If you’re looking for a stunning emerald piece, find an American Gem Society jeweler near you.