The Romans believed that these glistening
stones would ward off evil and would also change colour to pale if treachery
was detected! It was also thought that
emeralds were very beneficial to the eyes and many holistic treatments using
emeralds were carried out on those suffering with eye conditions - subject to
wealth and stature of course!
Cleopatra is well known to have been a
devotee to emeralds, such was her love for them. It is said that the emeralds once in her
possession were all mined from Egypt and given to her as gifts.
Emeralds are also considered to be a symbol
of power and wealth, and as such still found in royal crowns and jewellery to
this day.
Emeralds are still very coveted and
desirable, so much so that lawyers and governments have stated the smuggling of
these gems is a very big issue. Due to the popularity and history of emeralds,
it is quite possible that vintage pieces of jewellery containing the green
stone were actually smuggled at some point in their history - if only gems
could talk to tell their story!
They are very delicate and due to the fact
that the vast majority of emeralds have flaws, they require expert attention.
Oils are normally applied to emeralds to fill in the inclusions and help to aid
their durability.
Emeralds are a big part of the world's
history and their vivid greens and individual, unique character makes each and
every gem special in its own way. A
fabulous birthstone for the month of May, as well as indicating the start of
the green summer months.
commons.wikimedia.org
No comments:
Post a Comment