A Brief History of Emeralds 

Emeralds are part of the mineral family known as beryl. In its purest form, beryl is colorless. The presence of additional mineral deposits gives it a color, and it is chromium that provides emeralds with their signature green color. 

Emeralds are typically found in metamorphic rocks exposed to high temperatures and pressures. They are also found in alluvial deposits, which have been transported by water erosion. Colombia is the world’s largest producer of emeralds, followed by Brazil, Zambia, and Russia. 

Emeralds: More precious than Diamonds? 

Diamonds have a long-standing reputation as the ultimate symbol of wealth and luxury, making them irresistible to many people. But there’s another gemstone that can make the same claim: emeralds. 

Emeralds are far rarer than diamonds, and their value has steadily increased in recent years. Some of the world’s most famous emeralds are worth more than even the most expensive diamonds. 

The emerald is a beautiful green gemstone treasured for centuries. 

Emeralds were known to be mined in Egypt since as early as 330 BC. The Egyptians used emeralds in jewelry and elaborate burials. Apart from the Egyptians, the Muzo Indians of Colombia had well-hidden and prized emerald mines. For nearly twenty years after the Spanish conquest of Colombia, the location of the Muzo Indians’ emerald mines remained a mystery! It is also interesting to note how Ireland is called the Emerald Isle due to the presence of its lush green fields that have the same vivid green hue as an emerald! 

Today, emeralds are famous for engagement rings and other fine jewelry. They are typically cut into faceted gems or cabochons and are set into jewelry designs ranging from simple to elaborate. Because of its hardness (7.5 on the Mohs scale), the emerald can withstand everyday wear without damage. 

So how did Emeralds become popular today? 

Though emeralds have been found in many parts of the world and used for jewelry and other decorative purposes for centuries, it was not until more recently that they became widely popular. 

In the early 1900s, emeralds from Columbia were brought to Europe and quickly gained popularity among royalty and the wealthy. It wasn’t long before Hollywood celebrities began wearing emerald jewelry, furthering their appeal. Let’s look at the sequence of how emeralds became popular: 

Ancient Egypt: Emeralds prized by royalty. 

Ancient Egypt was one of the first civilizations to prize emeralds. Emeralds were seen as a symbol of power and wealth and were often worn by royalty.  

Cleopatra: A well-known emerald lover. 

The most famous historical figure to cherish emerald gemstones is Cleopatra. Emeralds were said to be one of her favorite gemstones. She even had a unique emerald-encrusted crown made for herself. 

The middle ages: Emeralds introduced to Europe. 

Emeralds were used in jewelry and other decorative objects in the Middle East and Asia for centuries. However, they were not widely available in Europe until the middle ages. The popularity of emeralds in Europe increased rapidly during the 12th and 13th centuries. Many famous European royalty and nobility owned emeralds, becoming a symbol of power and wealth. 

The Renaissance Period: Emerald popularity soars. 

During the Renaissance, the popularity of emeralds soared. The demand for emeralds during the Renaissance was so high that many mines got depleted, and prices for the gem skyrocketed. 

Today: Emeralds continue to rise in popularity. 

The popularity of emeralds does not seem to be waning. Many celebrities can be seen sporting emerald jewelry, and the gem is a popular choice for engagement and wedding rings. Emeralds are stunning jewels that can make anyone wearing them feel like a star. 

The jeweled emerald is among the most sought-after gemstones by Hollywood actresses. Beyoncé, Rihanna, and Jennifer Lopez have all been spotted sporting these precious stones. 

The beauty and meaning of emeralds continue to hold us captive. 

It is pretty clear how, over the years, emeralds have become popular. Their unique color, history, and symbolism all contribute to their desirability. Today, they are still one of the most popular gemstones on the market. If you are interested in purchasing an emerald, make sure to do proper research and make an informed decision, and purchase only from a reliable and reputable jewelry store. 

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Based in San Dimas – California, Trust My Jeweler stands behind everything it does. Trust My Jeweler offers customized jewelry services and repairs backed by Free Shipping, a Lifetime Warranty, and a Certificate of Authenticity. Trust My Jeweler also makes your search for a trusted jeweler easier. 

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