GEM - a mineral or organic substance that is cut and polished and used as an ornament. A gem’s qualities are based in its beauty, rarity and durability. The unit of weight used for gems is the metric carat.


The emerald is a highly valued gemstone of the green variety of the mineral beryl, a mineral that is usually colorless. The vibrant green color of the emerald is due to traces of chromium. Chromium is the rare Midas element of gemstones. Crystals of emerald grew in metamorphic rocks, which usually restricts the size of emerald crystals, making them even more rare in large sizes.


Emeralds are judged by their weight, proportion, color, brilliance and and clarity. Emeralds are also valued for their inclusions.


Emeralds are very sensitive; so gem cutters invented the popular octagonal cut, also know as the emerald cut, to protect it from blemishes. Transparent emeralds are often cut in the brilliant cut style, while the cabochon cut is used on stones with a lot of inclusions to help reflect its deep color.


The word emerald is from the Greek word smaragdos, which means green stone. For over 4,000 years the emerald has been symbolic of many superstitions and beliefs. Known as a symbol of love and rebirth, emeralds are said to protect marriage, enhance fertility and improve health and knowledge.


Emerald is the birthstone for May and the anniversary gem for the 20th year of marriage.