beryl, emerald, Colombia, Russia, Afghanistan, Brazil, synthetic beryl, emerald, gems

Since antiquity, emerald has been one of the most highly valuated gemstone: the first known mines were those of Cleopatra in ancient Egypt. Two thousand years ago Pliny wrote, Emerald-green is the most beautiful green of all." Leading researchers offer insight into many of the aspects of the world of emerald. -What is emerald? A portrait of a precious and unique member of the beryl family -How does emerald form? The events that conspired to bring about an unlikely outcome; -Where is emerald found? Worldwide localities including Canada, Namibia and China -Where are the richest deposits? Today's market sources: South America, Africa and Asia; -Is it possible to determine the origin of an emerald? Gemstone emerald: characteristics, inclusions and treatments;-What separates green beryl from emerald? The debate over optical, spectroscopic and chemical delineations; -How is emerald created in the lab and how can it be recognized? The history, process and detection of synthetic emerald; Plus etymology, history, legendary giants, local finds and more. extraLapis English No. 2, Emerald, provides a comprehensive look at this magnificent gemstone."