The Emerald gemstone is one of four precious stones. Emeralds have been viewed as a sign of affluence, often times even rivalling the rarity and value of a diamond! Its whimsical green colour makes this stone highly desirable. Emeralds belong to the Beryl group of stones. Flaws or cloudiness, also referred to as Jardin, are very common in emeralds and usually visible to the naked eye. Fun fact - Emeralds are the birth stone of May and were long thought to have healing powers.

The first known Emerald mines were located in Egypt, dating back as early as 330BC. Cleopatra was said to be a lover of Emeralds. Today, the finest Emeralds are found in Columbia. Other key players are Brazil and Zambia.

Elizabeth Taylor was an avid Emerald lover and jewellery collector. One of her most famous pieces by far is the Bulgari Emerald and Diamond necklace sold in auction for $6.5 million in 2011. Our personal favourite are her Emerald and Diamond Bulgari ear pendant she wore during her meeting with Queen Elizabeth in 1976.