The Gem Gallery Blog

Emerald is the birthstone of the fifth month, May. Sapphire and agate joins emerald, however, as the Mystical and Ayurvedic May birthstones, respectively. As May overlaps two star signs, Taurus and Gemini, and as with each sign there are multiple gemstones, the category of May birthstones expands even further. Taurus’ birthstones are sapphire, turquoise, amber, emerald, and blood coral; its planetary stones emerald and aventurine; its lucky charms sapphire and diamond. Gemini’s birthstones, on the other hand, are agate, chrysoprase, and peal;its planetary stone tiger eye; its lucky charms agate and emerald.

Emerald being the modern birthstone for the month of May, it is the more frequently turned jewelry for that purpose. Its name can be traced to Semitic origin through the word “izmargad” or the Sanskrit word “marakata,” which means “green,” pertaining to the gem’s color which may range from medium to dark green. It has a hardness rating of 7.5 on the Mohs Scale, but is not very resistant to breakage especially if with inclusions or surface fissures. It is often irradiated and oiled, because of this, to achieve clarity (no naked eye-visible inclusions). To clean emerald jewelry a soft, dry cloth must be used, sudden temperature changes must be avoided as well as hot, soapy water, household chemicals, and home ultrasonic jewelry machines and cleaners.

Emerald is used for emotional and physical healing as it is believed it can strengthen and soothe both aspects of the human body. Energy healers associate emerald often with the heart chakra. Some believe that it helps increase one’s flexibility and understanding so they add the gem to wedding rings, aside from the basis that the emerald is a symbol of fidelity and goodness. See more interesting facts about emerald.

Sapphire is assumed to be blue unless a color is attached to its name; the gem comes in every color except red, which is ruby. Found in Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Australia, India, Thailand, Nigeria, Brazil, Kenya, Malawi, among others, it is a durable gem, with a hardness rating of 9 on the Mohs Scale, and is used occasionally as a diamond substitute.

Sapphire rings given in engagement express commitment and loyalty. The gem also represents sincerity, truth, and consistency; it is used by energy healers for clear thinking.
Kings used to wear sapphire-encrusted necklaces which they believe defended them against harm, the stones attracting divine favor and negating the wearer’s envy. Enjoy more fun sapphire facts.

Agate is an unusual stone, considered classy and earthy, but included as one of the May birthstones. Its common types include blue lace, moss, tree, and petrified wood. It is commonly turned into beads for pendants, necklaces or earrings. It has a hardness rating of 7.

Agate is believed to guard its wearer from danger, endowing him as well with boldness of heart which was the reason behind warriors using it on their armors to be victorious in battle. It is also said to ensure pleasant dreams and protect from nightmares, hence they are sometimes given to children. Moss agate is ideal for gardeners as it is believed to bond one with nature; tree agate is believed to help one with introspection.

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