All you need to know about the most precious of green gems
Emeralds are the birthstone of May, the month-long association with peace, serenity, and the renewal that comes with the changing of the seasons. As such, they are associated with love, hope, fertility and rebirth. They formed in the belly of Earth as far back as three billion years ago, when our planet was a water world and the only life in it was single-celled organisms. Their incredible colour is due to their chemical composition, which includes trace amounts of chromium and/or vanadium. It is the former that gives emeralds the appearance of giving off light. They are 20 times rarer than colourless diamonds and often, dearer.
From ancient times, superstition and folklore quickly attributed them to all kinds of healing and supernatural powers. For example, the Romans believed emeralds could revitalise the souls of those who wore them. Several Middle Eastern cultures thought them a defence against snake bites and others were convinced that placing one under your tongue would give you the power to see the future.
Angelina Jolie and Jessica Chastain are two of the global stars choosing emeralds for Red…
