May, a time when everything blooms and turns green, is perfectly represented by the emerald, a green gemstone that is associated with this month.

History

Emeralds have a long and rich history, although it is difficult to determine the exact time of their discovery. The trading of emeralds by the inhabitants of Babylon dates back to the 4th century BC. This precious stone was also known and valued in ancient Egypt, and it was mined in the Arabian desert through deep mines hidden beneath quicksand. The Greeks, Romans, Persians, and Indians were all familiar with and admired this captivating gem.

Deposits

When it comes to the birthplace of emeralds, the largest quantity is currently mined in Colombia. However, Zambian emerald deposits also yield a significant amount, accounting for approximately 20% of the total supply. In the 19th century, Ural emeralds were discovered, renowned for their vibrant neon-green color. These emeralds owe their distinctive hue to a high concentration of iron and chromium, as well as exceptionally clear crystals that do not require oil treatment. Even in their raw form, the stones from these deposits possess such beauty that they quickly gained recognition in the global jewelry market. Among them, the Malyshevo mine (formerly Mariinskoye) stands out as the most famous.