3 EXQUISITE EMERALD PIECES THAT MAKE EXCEPTIONAL GIFTS
This enchanting green gemstone has long been valued by many civilizations, like the Egyptians, who were said to have mined it in 330 BC. It was, in fact, regarded as Cleopatra's favorite among jewels. The emerald was said to represent Venus, the Goddess of Beauty and Love, by the ancient Romans. As a result, the color green has long been associated with beauty and persistent, unconditional love. The gem was also thought to have the ability to predict the future, during the Middle Ages. The term 'Emerald' is derived from the Greek term 'smaragdos' through the ancient French 'emerald,' which means 'Green Gemstone.' It is a member of the Beryl family, along with Aquamarine and Morganite. Its glamorously green/blue hue comes from the minerals chromium and vanadium. The gems themselves develop in beautiful hexagonal 'pencils' inside the host rock. Emeralds are often treated to improve their color or clarity, internal fractures and fissures. Sat...