The "green fire" was so mesmerizing and highly valued in the courts of Europe that the Spanish Conquistadors went on a bloody campaign to find the location of the emerald mines in South America. In 1557, the campaign finally ended with the discovery of the spectacular Muzo and Chivor mines in present day Colombia - still the world's major source. Interestingly, its name comes from the Greek word “Smaragdos”, meaning green gem.

Some people believe that wearing an Emerald brings wisdom, growth and patience. And as any couple would agree, all of these qualities are essential for lasting love. This may explain why a gift of Emerald is considered symbolic of love and devotion. Emeralds are even believed to change color upon infidelity.

The neon green color of Emeralds is unparalleled in the gem kingdom. Its beautiful green color, combined with its rarity, makes Emeralds one of the world’s most valuable gemstones. Emeralds are a member of the beryl family of minerals. Minute traces of chromium, vanadium and iron give Emeralds their famous “Green Fire”. The green crystals grow slowly within metamorphic rocks and are restricted in size by the host rock, making large Emeralds rare and costly.