ABU DHABI: A rare emerald valued at $1 million with Quranic verses engraved in it is capturing attention at the 15th edition of the Abu Dhabi Art Fair.
Juan Gabriel Hernandez, the director of Casa Zirio gallery in Colombia and owner of the gem ‘Piedra de la Vida’ (Stone of Life), described it as a “sacred treasure”. “This is a rare emerald, which transcends the boundaries of beauty and spirituality. As you gaze upon its mesmerising green hues, know that within its very core lies a unique manifestation of divine wisdom.
Picture holding in your hands a marvel of Earth’s wonders that bears the sacred verses of Surat Al Imran, Ayah 138,” he told Khaleej Times while showcasing the exquisite emerald.
He emphasized that the intricately inscribed verses imbue tangible existence with the essence of faith. “In these verses, Allah proclaims the truth. This emerald, adorned with such a profound testimony, is not merely a jewel; it stands as a living testament to the enduring beauty of faith.”
The history of this rare gem spans over a century, tracing back to Habib Allem, an adventurous individual from the Middle East who arrived in Cartagena, Colombia. Legend has it that he purchased the emerald as a gift for his wife, and it has been passed down through generations until Hernandez acquired it.
“Across generations, this emerald continued its journey, exchanging hands through faithful inheritance, bearing witness to Arabian migration and maintaining enduring family connections,” Hernandez explained. “It was more than a business transaction; it was an encounter with a story deeply rooted in the rich history of humanity.”
Colombia, known for mining and producing a significant portion of the world’s emeralds, adds further value to Hernandez’s precious stone. He emphasized that the gem has undergone examination and verification by experts, confirming its worth at $1 million.
Speaking from booth A21, Hernandez concluded his sentiments, highlighting the emerald’s significance amid the hustle and bustle of the world. The Abu Dhabi Art Fair, organized by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, is a five-day event inaugurated by Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council. The free-to-attend fair runs at Manarat Al Saadiyat in Abu Dhabi until Sunday.
