HISTORY AND LORE OF EMERALDS

      Traditionally the emerald is the birthstone associated with the month of May. It  is the anniversary gemstone for the 20th, 35th and 55th year of marriage, the perfect emblem of an enduring love.

     Etymology is Middle English emerallde, from Middle French esmeralde, from (assumed) Vulgar Latin smaralda, from Latin smaragdus, from Greek smaragdos. The emerald is a rich green variety of beryl which derives its color from chromium and vanadium.

     Though not meant to replace traditional medical treatment, Emerald is used for physical and emotional healing. The Moguls of India, including Shah Jahan, the builder of the Taj Mahal, loved emeralds so much they inscribed them with sacred text and wore them as talismans. Some of these sacred stones, called Mogul emeralds, can still be seen in museums and collections today. 

     According to legend, Emeralds strengthen the owner's memory, quicken the intelligence and assist in predicting the future.