Colombian cuisine varies greatly, depending on the uniqueness of the many regions of this large, disperse country. Generally, Colombian cuisine includes some type of meat dish and even though they do not use a lot of vegetables, they do use lots of fruits. In fact, more than any other ingredient. Breakfast is more important to them than lunch and dinner. I love to see strong colors with geometric designs. This month I have focused on finding our color of the month in geometry, and what could be more perfect then architectural stairs?
This month, we are focusing on the birthstone of May, Emerald.
Birthstones are gemstones that are associated with each month.
May Birthstone: Emerald
Birthstone Color: Deep Green
Emerald is the birthstone for the month of May. This gem is suggested as an anniversary gift for the 20th and 35th anniversaries and as an alternate stone for the 55th wedding anniversary.
Mystical Powers of the birthstone: Some people believe that wearing an Emerald brings wisdom, growth, and patience. And as any couple in a long-term relationship would agree, all of these qualities are essential for a successful and lasting love. This may explain why a gift of Emerald for an anniversary -- or anytime -- is considered symbolic of love and fidelity.
Main sources of Emerald: Emeralds are found in many countries, but Columbia and Brazil are the major producers and Columbia is recognized as the source for the finest stones. They are also found in Pakistan, Russia, Australia, South Africa, India, Norway, and the United States.
Interesting Facts: Spring is a time of new growth and rebirth. And the intense brilliant green of the Emerald, May’s birthstone, is as refreshing to the eyes as a spring garden after a rain. Within it’s depths are often tiny fractures or inclusions, which the French call "jardin," or garden, because of their resemblance to foliage. The Egyptians were known to engrave Emeralds with the symbol for foliage to represent eternal youth, and to bury these jewels with their dead. The ancient Romans associated this gemstone with fertility and rebirth, and dedicated it to Venus, the goddess of love and beauty.
