Muso emerald deposits can be found in the foothills of the Colombian Andes Mountains.  The world’s longest mountain range, the Andes extend for 2,796 miles (4,500 kilometers). This tropical region, home to Indians, is the only one to have emerald deposit in South America.

Thanks to their vibrant green color, ancient Egyptians believed that emeralds represented rebirth and fertility. As a result, many mummies were buried with emerald necklaces around their necks in an effort to afford them eternal youth in the afterlife.

Because of the stones’ precious nature, King Tut’s mask was inlaid with carnelian. Napolean I, Napolean III and Mohammed are all purported to have worn carnelians as well, which the Romans believed was a stone of courage. In modern European times, Goethe attributed carnelian with the power to protect against evil, to propel hope and comfort, and to evoke good fortune.

Harder than steel, emeralds are quite durable. Care should still be taken, however, to avoid harsh contact. You can clean emeralds with a soft cloth and warm water.

As with other gemstones, use of commercial cleansers on carnelian is not recommended. Keep your carnelian out of direct sunlight and heat to maintain its color and luster.

Avoid vigorous polishing of your vermeil jewelry so as not to destroy the gold coating, and never expose it to moisture. Keeping it in a zip-lock bag will prevent moisture and humidity from attacking it.