| Cleopatra adored the satiny green hue of the | | | | their mines. |
| emerald. The oldest mines can be found in Egypt | | | | Though South America and Africa are the top |
| near the Red Sea and they are referred to as | | | | producers of the stones, there are other mines |
| "Cleopatra's Mines." Unfortunately, she was not | | | | across Asia. Pakistan, Afghanistan and India boast |
| alone in her adoration. From 3000 to 1500 B.C., | | | | their own supplies. Russia is also home to |
| other pharaohs also enjoyed the rich gemstones | | | | productive mines. |
| so much so that the mines were completely | | | | May's Birthstone |
| depleted long ago. Luckily, these were not the | | | | Every month has a gemstone (or two) dedicated |
| only mines so you can enjoy elaborate emerald | | | | as an official birthstone for people born during that |
| earrings in the fashion of Cleopatra or a simple | | | | month. For May, emerald ring purchases are |
| emerald pendant. You don't have to miss out on | | | | common as a birthday gift. But, there are other |
| this envy-inducing green gemstone. | | | | special occasions for which an emerald tennis |
| What are they? | | | | bracelet might make a wonderful gift. Why? |
| The gemstone known as emerald is the | | | | Because it is also the official gemstone designated |
| consummate green gem. It is made up of | | | | to commemorate the 20th and 35th wedding |
| beryllium-aluminium-silcates and is a member of | | | | anniversary. |
| the beryl family of stones. In the family, the | | | | Care and Cleaning |
| emerald is typically the darker green and bluish | | | | These lovely green stones one of the four original |
| green stones. The lighter ones are simply called | | | | precious gemstones- diamond, ruby and sapphire |
| green beryl. | | | | being the others. However, it is also the least hard |
| Because pure natural beryl stones are clear, trace | | | | with a rating of 8. Now, that doesn't mean they |
| particles of vanadium, chromium and iron are | | | | are fragile, they just require a little more |
| what give the emerald its color. The most sought | | | | tender-loving care. One reason they are more |
| after color is a darkish green with a slight blue tint. | | | | delicate is because they naturally have inclusions |
| These stones are well known for coming out of | | | | that weakens their strength. As a result, the |
| the mines in Columbia. If you can find a natural, | | | | agitation of an ultrasonic cleaner is not a good idea |
| untreated Columbian emerald ring of significant | | | | for their care. |
| size, you will pay dearly, but it will be worth it. | | | | Another issue to consider is that most of these |
| Where do they come from? | | | | gems go through an oiling treatment to help |
| So, if Cleopatra's Mines are empty, where are | | | | reduce the appearance of inclusions that are |
| these gorgeous green gems coming from? There | | | | present in all emeralds. Using strong cleaners and |
| are still mines located in Africa in countries like | | | | even a steamer can remove the oils. |
| Zambia, Nigeria and Zimbabwe. But today, the | | | | However you wear them, these gems are classic |
| greatest supply comes from South America. | | | | and sophisticated. In all shapes, sizes and shades; |
| Particularly, Brazil and Columbia are well known for | | | | whether earrings or a gemstone ring, they go |
| the color and clarity of stones that come out of | | | | with everything. |