The History of Egyptian Emeralds
Did you know that Egypt is famous for its abundance of emeralds? In fact, Egypt was the first place Emeralds were ever discovered! Dating all the way back to 1500 B.C, Egypt became a hotspot for emerald mining. These emerald mines were later called “Cleopatra’s Mines,” named after Cleopatra VII Philopator and her deep love for the gemstone.
Discovery
The first known emeralds were found in Egypt around 1500 BC. Fast forward a few centuries and the first emerald mines became known around 330 BC, located near Luxor on the Nile River. These mines were around until the 1700s until they were rediscovered & exploited by French naturalist & mineralogist Frederic Cailliaud.
Facade of Egyptian Emerald Mines
Cleopatra’s Mines
Cleopatra VII Philopator was the last active ruler of the Ptolemaic Kingdom of Egypt from 51 to 30 BC. Along with being a queen, she had an intense love for the emerald gemstone that was well documented throughout history. In fact, she loved emeralds so much that the emerald mines were named “Cleopatra’s Mines” after her.
Egyptian Emerald Legends
Along with using emeralds for their luxury jewelry, Cleopatra and the ancient Egyptians believed that emeralds symbolized many things and were also used for medicinal purposes. Emeralds were thought to have healing properties that could help treat eye disease and aid in fertility. On top of that, the Egyptians believed that emeralds were once genies that were turned to stone. The dead were also traditionally buried with emerald stones to represent eternal youth.
Statue of Cleopatra VII Philopator
Emerald Stone
Resources:
- Egypt History Information: https://www.gia.edu/
- Egypt History Information: https://www.gemporia.com/
- Facade of Egyptian Emerald Mines: https://commons.wikimedia.org/
- Statue of Cleopatra VII Philopator: https://commons.wikimedia.org/
- Emerald Stone: https://commons.wikimedia.org/
My Jewelry Repair
Continuing the History of Jewelry
Egypt contributed greatly to our rich history of jewelry and accessorizing. When it comes time to giving your jewelry, watches, and other accessories the TLC they need to shine through the ages, My Jewelry Repair is here with our mail-in repair service.
Contact us today to learn more about our easy online jewelry and watch repair service!