The Emerald - May's birthstone - A symbol of rebirth
The exquisite emerald is the official birthstone of May. According to Indian folklore, the word ‘emerald’ derives from the Sanskrit Marakata, defined as “the green of growing things.” Eventually, the Old French or Vulgar Latin interpretations, Esmeraulde, Esmaralda or Esmaraldus evolved into the word we use today: emerald.
A Brief History
Throughout time, it seems that people all over the world have been intrigued by the May birthstone. Even back in 4,000 B.C., one could find emeralds traded in the Babylon souks. The Incan Indians deified it, while the Chaldeans claimed it housed a goddess. Clearly, it was exalted among the main belief systems for its spiritual energy and splendor. To the early Egyptians, the emerald was symbolic of everlasting life—and was given to them by Thoth, the ancient Egyptian deity. The emerald was popular in other parts of the world, as well. Aristotle, Charlemagne aka, Charles the Great, and several Indian magnates also revered the stone and wore them as amulets to bring them luck, safety, and to ward off disease.
The emerald is also a stone that brings about boundless imagination and insight. It is linked to eyesight as well, and historically thought to predict the future and expose lies and ambiguity. The emerald is a stone of wisdom, enhancing memory and increasing mental clarity. It blends intellect with discernment and even better, introduces the elusive subconscious to the conscious mind. The emerald also sharpens focus and purpose and makes apparent one’s gifts of clairvoyance. Initially, the stone was widely employed as a defense against sorcery.
According to Jewish history, the bareketh, (Hebrew for emerald) was the third stone in the body armor of the High Priest and inscribed with the tribe of Levi. Folklore also tells us that the emerald was among the four treasured gemstones bestowed by G-d to King Solomon, bequeathing him with authority over the Earth.
As a talisman, the emerald was believed to counteract epilepsy in the form of a necklace or ring. The Greek philosopher, Aristotle, echoed this belief and encouraged the parents of young children to use the emerald to protect them from this dreaded disease.
The Birthstone
When we are born, each of the elements of the universe are aligned in certain configurations. Since everything is connected, (as it is above so it is below) the stars and planets are situated in ways that will have both positive and negative influences on our lives.
Integral in these constellations and formations is a distinctive set of stimuli and characteristics. As humans we have free will, therefore, we can choose to go with the flow and roll with the punches throughout our lifetimes, or we can learn to understand the stimuli and how it operates, and then try to appropriately adjust our reactions to them.
In short, we have a choice: either accept it, or change it.
Our birthstones have been with us since Day One. They understand us, know what makes us tick, and are aware of our individual aspirations. As such, our birthstones can be like a lucky charm or talisman for us, should we decide to carry our birthstone in our purse or pocket, or wear it as a piece of jewelry. They also have the ability to clear negative karma we may have accumulated from past transmigrations, thus allowing us an easier, more pleasant experience in life this time around.
What the May Birthstone Means for You
Among its countless attributes, the emerald has also been known to:
- Restore passion to all aspects of life
- Foster self-esteem
- Impart a calming influence
- Heal a broken heart (I’ll take two, please!)
- Hasten recovery from physical illness
- Heal emotional wounds
- Assist in articulation (Say what you mean)
- Cause a lost love to return to you—simply hold the emerald in your right hand and place it over your heart while thinking of your lover.
In addition to all the useful purposes above, the emerald can be crafted into spectacular pieces of jewelry for both men and women. Traditionally, it was gifted on the 55th wedding anniversary. However today, the American Gem Trade Association catalogs the emerald as a gift for the 20th anniversary
