The beautiful green shades of the emerald derive from the presence of chromium and vanadium. Only the finest quality gemstones are transparent and flawless; most have tiny fractures or mineral inclusions known as a "jardin," the French word for garden.

Hundreds of years ago, emeralds were thought to possess healing powers, particularly for restoring eyesight.

During the Renaissance, emeralds were exchanged among the aristocracy as symbols - and tests - of friendship. The aristocrats believed that the stone would only stay intact as long as the friendship was strong.