Emerald, the birthstone for May

Colours
Emeralds, like the colours of the rain forests of Brazil and Columbia and the tropical forests of Zambia where it is mined, it exhibits a deep green colour.
Most natural Emeralds contain inclusions called 'jardin' or gardens, which are regarded as Emeralds birthmarks.

Physical Properties
Emeralds are hard gemstones, however because of its many fissures it is very brittle. This makes cutting, setting and cleaning the stone rather difficult.Great care must be taken when cleaning and an item of jewellery set with an Emerald. It must never be ultrasonically cleaned as this can damage or even crack the stone. Also when washing your hands in water that contains a cleansing agent, it is important to make sure any Emerald rings are removed as this can damage the stone.