The Intriguing History of Emerald Engagement Rings

Emeralds have won the hearts of people for centuries with their rich green color and fascinating beauty. If we talk about engagement rings, emeralds offer a unique and wonderful alternative to traditional diamond rings. Their vibrant green color and rich history make them a great choice for couples who appreciate the symbolism and spiritual significance of gemstones.

In this article, we will take you on a journey through the captivating history of emerald engagement rings. We will explore interesting stories showcasing the enduring allure and eternal beauty of emeralds as symbols of love and spirituality.

Understanding The Symbolism of Emerald Engagement Rings

The term emerald is inherently related to the word green, going back to antiquity with the original term being “smaragdus” or “green gem”. This means any green transparent stone, not a specific one. The natural element of the stone is intrinsically connected with renewal and rebirth, indicating beginnings and endings, growth and healing. Moreover, this green color is highly therapeutic for the eyes and also associated with wisdom.

There is a belief that one can see the future by placing an emerald stone under the tongue. The stone is also thought to protect against evil spells, reveal truth and make an individual an eloquent speaker.

Additionally, emerald symbolizes fidelity and true love, dating back to the Greek offering emeralds to Aphrodite; goddess of beauty and love. Emerald engagement rings are also believed to promote harmony, balance and patience in relationships.This  makes them perfect for couples starting their journey together. 

Emerald green stone is the part of the beryl family and it get its green hue from trace amounts of chromium and/or vanadium

History of Emerald Engagement Rings

Emerald gemstones have been cherished throughout history for their vibrant green color and rich symbolism. They have charmed civilizations for millennia.

Ancient Times

Dating back to ancient times, emerald mining in Egypt is believed to have begun around 330 BC. The popular Egyptian emerald mines, also known as Cleopatra’s emerald mines, served as the world’s primary source of emeralds. They continued to be the world’s primary source of emeralds until significant deposits were discovered in the Americas in the 16th century. To the early Egyptians, green was a sacred color and was believed to be associated with fertility and rebirth.

The ancient Greeks also treasured these precious stones. The famous ring of Polycrates was thought to contain an emerald. The Greek historian Herodotus mentions an emerald column in the Temple of Hercules at Tyre. While, Plato includes emeralds among other known gemstones of the period.

Furthermore, Roman’s interest in  emerald was increased by mines situated in the Alps. Paulina, the wife of the Roman emperor Caligula, was famous for her magnificent display of emeralds as well as other precious stones.

Rediscovery of Emeralds

Emeralds from Colombia were part of the plunder when sixteenth-century Spanish explorers invaded the New World. The Spanish conquerors took over the control of the lands and wealth of Central and South America. Besides gold and other mineralogical resources, the Spanish seized the emerald mines previously mined by the Aztecs and Incas. Here they found the second most important emerald mine in gemological history, in Chivor, Colombia.

By the time Europeans arrived in America, these lush green emeralds were extensively spread along the trade routes connecting the Aztecs, Mayans and Incas. Their use as currency and in religious rituals is well documented in the archaeological record. In fact, the Colombian specimens proved even more beautiful and striking green than their Egyptian cousins. For this reason, Colombian emeralds remain the ultimate standard for emeralds. 

Famous Emeralds Indicating Royalty

Emeralds have long been admired by royalty and aristocracy for their allure and elegance. Some of the iconic examples include:

1.       Jackie Kennedy’s Engagement Ring

This ring features a toi et moi (meaning “you and me”)  design with diamonds and emeralds placed side by side.

2. Wallis Simpson’s Engagement Ring

During the early 1900s, King Edward VIII, proposed American socialite, Wallis Simpson, the Duchess of Windsor, with a 19.77- carat emerald ring and  their betrothal ultimately led to his abdication from the throne. Consequently, Edwards Brother, George VI, ascended to the throne instead, and was succeeded by the late Queen Elizabeth.

3. Princess Eugiene’s Tiara

When Princess Eugenie married Jack Brooksbank in 2018, she embraced the Greville Emerald Kokoshnik Tiara, decorated with six emeralds on either side.

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Conclusion

Emerald engagement ring are more than just beautiful pieces of jewelry and often have been associated with deep affection and royalty. They carry timeless appeal through their rich historical connections, lush green color and symbolization of fertility and renewal. Their allure dates back to ancient civilisations, including the Egyptians, who believed that emeralds symbolize fertility and rebirth. In more recent times emeralds' association with royal figures have proven their timeless appeal.

Explore the collection of the finest emerald jewelry pieces at GemsNY. Here you will get the perfect combination of  timeless beauty with fantastic craftsmanship and remarkable designs