Emeralds, known to the Romans as the smaragdus are the most valued variety of the beryl mineral family.
3.41 carat cushion cut Zambian emerald.
According to the medieval lapidary of Marbode of Rennes, the Emperor Nero preferred to watch gladitorial combat through an emerald lense, as the green color was believed to be soothing to the eyes. Marbode also states that one who wears an emerald will have luck in lawsuits and be protected from harsh fever. If you should find yourself cornered by a venomous snake, just show him an emerald, and he will be so scared that his eyes will fall out of his head and he'll leave you alone.