May symbolises new beginnings (spring) for the northern hemisphere and as many gem traditions have their roots in these parts of the world it is not surprising that a bright green stone was chosen as the birthstone for May. I wonder whether it would be appropriate for Southern Africa to modify the rule and either select an African green gemstone such as tourmaline or a different colour tourmaline in tune with the autumn period. 

Emerald also enhances knowledge and wisdom and that is definitely needed for a lasting marriage, hence emerald is also the gem dedicated to the 20^th and 35^th wedding anniversary. Personally I would recommend any size as a birthstone and a minimum of 3 carat for an anniversary present! Some people really tend to exaggerate and in 2001, Christie’s of London auctioned the legendary ‘Mogul Emerald’ weighing 217,80 carats. The stone fetched a whooping 2.2 million $ - an anniversary present of note?!? 

Most of these marvellous gems are mined in South America, especially in Colombia that still supplies top quality gems, but the oldest emeralds come from Zimbabwe and I can assure you that they are spectacular – obviously ANPA stocks a few of those jewels….  And maybe the Zimbabwean deposits will challenge South America in the future. Here a newspaper clipping, dated from 2007:  Massive emerald rush in Zim
05/01/2007 18:32  - (SA)   Harare - At least 3 000 people have joined a new rush for emeralds in eastern Zimbabwe, a few months after diamonds were discovered in the area, it was reported on Friday. In July, villagers in impoverished Marange district discovered diamonds and sparked a massive diamond rush, which brought untold wealth to dozens of previously-poor households. Now suspected emerald fields have been found at three sites in Buhera district Chishanyi, Svongwa and Jori and about 3 000 people have joined the latest rush, reports the state-controlled Manica Post newspaper.  

This entry was posted on Saturday, May 1st, 2010 at 3:36 am and is filed under birthstones.