01749 860010
Birthstones >
May
Emeralds are hard green precious stones that belong to the beryl group of crystals. This group also includes aquamarine, morganite, and chrysoberyl. Emeralds, and all forms of beryl, have large, perfect, six-sided crystals. They were long thought to have healing powers, especially for eyesight. During the Renaissance, emeralds were used as a test for friendship among the aristocracy. An emerald given to a friend would remain perfect as long as the friendship endured.
Hardness 7.5 to 8