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Emerald Symbolism: Myths and Beliefs

Few gemstones are surrounded by as much mystery as emeralds. Beyond simply being pretty or accentuating a variety of skin tones, the emerald carries with it a rich history that spans back roughly 4,000 years to Babylon, the “cradle of civilization,” making it a popular gemstone for gift giving.

Emerald Symbolism and Color

Emeralds. Cleopatra draped herself in them. Their rich, cool green tone played off of Elizabeth Taylor’s violet eyes in the 1960s.

Unlike the red ruby, which is a blatant statement of passionate love, the emerald conveys a more complex set of symbolism and emotions.

Emerald gemstone

Round emerald gemstone

Green, by nature, is the most calming of all the colors on the color wheel.

It encourages growth, reflection, peace and balance. It also represents healing and fertility.

The verdant tones reflected in the jewel are tempered by a cool blue which symbolizes a steadfast bond.

This, along with the gem’s rarity, makes the stone a unique alternative to a traditional diamond engagement ring.

When you give an emerald, you are showing a dash of humility. People who don’t yet have everything figured out in life are considered “green,” or a bit naive.

Click here to see a large selection of gemstone jewelry in gold, platinum, and silver.

This is actually a positive thing when you consider that a new life together as a couple is defined by many unforeseen obstacles that you must tackle together and learn from.

More: Click here to see a selection of some of the most popular emerald jewelry.

Emerald green also suggests the concept of eternity, as it is a color that constantly renews itself in nature through generations.

Another reason that the emerald has come to symbolize a more mature love can be traced to Hindu culture.

Emerald green is the color that is used to align the heart chakra, or energy point, allowing feelings of love to low freely from a person’s core.

Healing Properties of the Emerald

Because it is associated with strong sexuality and fertility, the emerald was historically believed to help couples who were having problems bearing children or pregnant women who feared a difficult birth.

The stone has also been linked to healing and balance within the nervous, digestive and respiratory systems, in particular.

Ancient Romans, for example, felt that the very soul of an individual was restored when they wore emerald jewelry.

Related: Check out this rich selection of beautiful gemstone jewelry.

In modern times, it is said to help those who suffer from depression or other mental or emotional disorders.

What people need to realize is that, much like flowers, gemstones can create a whole dialog between two people.

An emerald is one of the few that symbolically cover a broad range of life’s experiences and milestones, making it a good choice for reaffirming a strong relationship.

*Disclaimer: This article is meant to serve only as an illustration of opinions and practices; any beliefs described here may not necessarily be true. No portion of the text above should be considered a source of medical advice.

Where to Buy Emeralds?

We recommend James Allen (read review) because you can take a 360-degree look at any emerald before having it set in a piece of jewelry. 

We also recommend Blue Nile and Ross-Simons.

Also take a look at GemsNY and at the vast selection of emerald jewelry at Amazon.

Disclosure: Some of the links on our site may help us earn affiliate commissions from advertisers. As an Amazon Associate, we may earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more

Read Next

  • How to Wear an Emerald Ring
  • How to Buy an Emerald
  • How to Detect a Fake Emerald Gemstone
More: Emerald Gemstones Healing Symbolism


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