Emerald is the most valued variety of beryl, an extremely hard mineral occurring in hexagonal crystals. All beryls are silicilates of beryllium and aluminum. The deep green color of an emerald is produced by small quantities of chromium compounds. There is a process by which emeralds can be manufactured; however, real emeralds are naturally occuring, and are mined.
Emeralds, like other gemstones, are said in legend to bring certain spiritual attributes and healing qualities to the wearer. It has been said that the emerald promotes creativity, perceptual clarity, and insight. Qualities of love, balance, and understanding are said to be enhanced in the wearer. Health of the eyes and of the central nervous system are said to be supported by the wearing of emeralds. In the chakra schema, emerald is associated with the heart chakra.
The ancient Egyptians used emeralds for their beauty and for their legendary properties. Artisans of pre-Colombian Peru and Mexico were skilled in the intricate carving of emeralds. When the Spanish conquistadores arrived, emeralds were taken back to Spain along with other appropriated treasures. For the past 500 years or so, emeralds have been mined in South America. Columbian emeralds are the world's finest.
When I was a child, I had a baby ring that fit my little finger. It was my birthstone, the emerald. My hand remembers it. For as long as I can remember anything, I have valued having preferences that were my own and somewhat distinctive. I dreamed of having a black horse, not a white one; my favorite color was blue, not red; and I wanted to wear my very own birthstone. Looking into an emerald and and sensing the power and the dance of energy that holds it in its chosen form makes you aware of the overlap between what we commonly think of as animate and inanimate. The emerald imparts to you a mood at once calm and alert. If you are are an earthy person, wear your birthstone. Study it. The essence of your self that embraces the stone will come back to you subtly different. How? Ask Stephen Hawking, he thinks he knows everything. Or better, look up Alfred North Whitehead's notion of prehension.
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