Emeralds are generally formed from beryl crystals that have been exposed to other minerals, usually chromium, vanadium, and iron, in hot, hydrothermal veins in granitic rocks. This interaction with the heat gives the emerald its rich green colour. But this complex process can vary from location to location. Over time, tectonic uplift and erosion can bring the emeralds to the surface.

Emeralds can vary in colour from a deep forest to a pale translucent green and many specimens  contain  incisions and blemishes. This doesn't necessarily mean an emerald with these features is less valuable. Indeed, sometimes it can make them more interesting and rare for a collector. The impact of inclusions and blemishes on an emerald’s value is evaluated on a case-by-case basis.

Emeralds are considered to be a relatively hard gemstone, with a hardness of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale so are suitable for everyday wear. However, they can be brittle and may be more prone to cracking or chipping when under pressure than other gemstones. This is a cautionary warning for those cutting and faceting this beautiful gemstone.

Folklore of the Emerald is rich and interesting. So many cultures in many places around the world, including ancient civilisations revered the emerald for its rich green brilliance. Imagine how people in early civilizations felt when they came across such an amazing and beautiful stone buried in the earth. In ancient Rome it was believed to be drops of dew left behind on the ground by the goddess Venus, and was thus associated with fertility. Hundreds of years before that, as far back as 1300 BC, emeralds were first mined in Egypt.  Ancient Egyptians believed that wearing an emerald could help them achieve immortality which is why an emerald was often placed on a mummy. They were also worn or gifted as a sign of a pharaoh's wealth.

Ancient South American civilizations such as the Incas and the Aztecs alos wore this precious stone. Emeralds played an important role in the celebrations and religious rites of these cultures, and they were also used extensively for personal decoration. 

Even in Cristian legends the emerald gets a mention as a symbol of resurrection. Indeed, in legends associated with the holy grail, it is thought that the Emerald (or Moldavite) cu;d well have been the grail as though wearing an emerald the heart chakra is opened and activated, potentially enabling someone to receive divine grace. 

For more information about the historical associations with emeralds see https://www.ga.gov.au/education/classroom-resources/minerals-energy/australian-mineral-facts/emerald

As far as the heart chakra is concerned, Emerald is the purest green, therefore a pure and most powerful conduit for the emotions. Love and compassion flow freely when the heart chakra is opening and, with an Emerald supporting you, this is possible. Love and compassion are the true path to the divine; a life lived in this way is the way of life for those on a spiritual journey to enlightenment. It is about living life from one’s heart and offering unconditional love. 

Given that, it is also known as the stone of domestic bliss, as when the heart is open it is easier to live with others in harmony; forgiving and loving and remaining sensitive to the needs of others whilst still honouring yourself. 

It is also a wonderful crystal to connect with when you’re suffering from heartbreak because when your heart is open, healing is possible. When we have been hurt our knee jerk reaction is often to close the heart to avoid pain, but an Emerald can inspire courage which also comes from the heart. When your heart is open and strong you can be brave about opening your heart and not being afraid of being vulnerable and retaining hope that happiness will once again come your way. 

Courage also comes in the form of facing your fears, or the fears of others, to protect in times of danger or threat, or to forge new paths when feeling unsure about the unknown. You can be brave, when you are acting with unconditional love.

Emerald is also associated with prosperity because an open heart allows universal blessings to flow into your life. You can tune into the abundance of the universe, attracting everything you need and desire. In order for this to happen you need to let go of any thoughts and feelings of unworthiness; the Emerald will support you in this way.

The clear, green fresh energy brings clarity of thought and feelings. It is a wonderful stone to wear every day, to support you on your life’s journey.