May’s Birthstone
Emerald
The emerald in its viridian beauty is sacred to the goddess Venus and its powers are strongest in the spring, especially when the moon is full. In several cultures the emerald also signifies the fertilizing power of rain as it unites with Earth’s body-being in a joyful immersion. Emerald green is the color as well as the stone itself. The particular depth and radiance of the green of an emerald can sometimes be more valuable than the purest light refractions of a diamond. Grounded in the wellsprings of faith, hope and the preservation of love, the emerald is also a stone that directs healing through the power of balance. Early traditional healers held that wearing an emerald on the index finger of the left hand helps with backaches. Additionally, the healer or massage therapist may use an emerald on his or her client’s back and massage the spine in a small spiraling movement. It was also believed that the emerald could heal maladies of the eye by setting the precious stone in a container of pure water, preferably from a sacred spring to allow the healing properties of the emerald to infuse the water. In the morning and as long as would be needed this “healing water” would used to wash out the infected eye. The emerald signifies balance as the root of wholeness and wellbeing for when we walk in balance we stand in strength with a tranquil spirit, a steady heart and a focused enlightened mind. In this state the emerald is also considered by many to bestow upon the wearer wisdom, reason and sometimes the gift of prophecy. As a signifier of harmony resulting from a balanced position the emerald also is a mediator and peacemaker. Its bridge building capacity grounded in love serves the wearer in all situations.