The emerald has been a revered stone for centuries, due to its eye-catching deep green hue. 

Those purchasing emerald pendants or emerald earrings are becoming part of a timeless tradition.

This stunning stone is associated with the emotional center of the body, the heart chakra. It is said to open the heart to both giving and receiving unconditional love.

Emeralds have many enticing meanings behind them, so read on to find out more.

Symbolism of emeralds 

Love and fidelity 

Many associate rubies with love; what many do not know is that emeralds are said to be capable of revealing true love.

Furthermore, while rubies represent passionate love, emeralds are seen as symbolizing a deep and faithful love.

As such, the stone is ideal for engagement or anniversary gifts or as a promise ring.

Heart diamond earrings or a stunning emerald drop necklace make for thoughtful presents, as does the emerald heart ring for a more traditional expression of love.

The emerald is also the gemstone for those celebrating their 20th, 35th and 55th anniversaries, making emerald bracelets or emerald necklaces a thoughtful present for a partner.

Wisdom and intellect 

Those wearing an emerald are said to benefit from enhanced mental clarity and focus. These properties expand to the workplace, where the stone brings focus. It also provides creativity and promotes harmony among coworkers.

The earliest Western reference to emeralds comes from Aristotle, who wrote that the gemstone makes the owner more important in business, strengthening the chance of sealing deals. In addition, it has the power to give victory in trials.

Historical and cultural significance of emeralds

Ancient Egypt

The ancient Egyptians revered emeralds, believing them to be a source of eternal life. In particular, Cleopatra adored the stones, and her relationship with them created a connection between emeralds and royal power.

Not only did she cover herself in them as a symbol of both authority and wealth, she ensured her palace was covered in them to communicate the same message. She would also present them to foreign dignitaries as diplomatic gifts, promoting the value of these gems as a rich currency.

Other traditions

• For Hindus, offering emeralds to Krishna bestows special blessings and spiritual rewards

• The Chaldeans believed that emeralds contained a goddess

• Emeralds were the gemstone of the goddess Venus in ancient Rome

• In the Islamic faith, an emerald amulet may be engraved with a verse from the Koran

• It was said that Nero found the color of emeralds calming, and even watched gladiator fights through a large transparent gemstone

• During the Middle Ages, emeralds were said to keep a woman chaste

Health benefits of emeralds

Healing and metaphysical properties

Ancient healers believed that wearing or being near these stones would promote heart wellness. 

Furthermore, they were thought to treat the kidney, pancreas and immune system, giving fresh energy to tired organs.

Eyesight

Emeralds have been linked with providing eye relief and healing vision ailments, due to their green color and soothing properties. In fact, an ancient eye treatment was emeralds soaked in water overnight and then poured over the eyes.

Gem cutters would keep emeralds on their workbench to provide visual relief. Some craftsmen would rest their eyes on these stones after spending hours working on other stones.

Psychic abilities

Many do not know that emeralds are actually linked to the revelation of future events and truths. 

Some believed the powers would only be activated when the wearer would put the emerald on their tongue, or place it on the left side of their body.

Mental well-being

We have discussed the soothing properties of emeralds for the eyes, and that Nero also found these stones calming. These gems provide an energy which helps with freshness and vitality of spirit.

They are also said to embody patience and compassion, so when people wear emeralds, they are given the same qualities, helping with both professional focus and enduring love.

Emerald birthstone

Emeralds are associated with those born in the spring. Specifically, the May birthstone is the emerald. It is linked with growth, renewal and rebirth.

Further aligning with the calendar, the emerald is the stone of the zodiac signs Taurus and Gemini. Its power is linked to renewed life force and good health, as well as success in new ventures.