Emerald

#7.5 to #8 on Mohs scale, poor to good toughness. Sources are Colombia, Afghanistan, Brazil, Pakistan, Russia, Zambia. Colombia is one of the largest commercial producers of emeralds. Fine Colombian emeralds are highly regarded for their excellent color. Zambia, a major commercial source, as well. Zambian emeralds tend to have good clarity. Zimbabwe, the Sandawana Valley …

January Almandine/Garnet February Amethyst/Quartz March Aquamarine/Beryl April Diamond May Emerald/Beryl June Alexandrite, Pearl, Moonstone July Ruby/Corundum August Spinel, Peridot, Sardonyx September Sapphire/Corundum October Opal, Tourmaline, Rose zircon November Topaz, Citrine December Turquoise, Blue zircon, and Tanzanite