There are many pretty things in nature that are green. The color green is often associated with nature, growth, renewal, and health. When we think of things that are green, our minds may go to leaves, grass, or trees. But there is much more to the green world around us. In this article, we will explore some of the prettiest green things in nature. From emerald stones, to green birds, to lush rainforests, we’ll cover a range of naturally green beauties. Understanding and appreciating these green wonders can help us connect more deeply with the natural world.
Emeralds
One of the most prized green gemstones is the emerald. Emeralds belong to the beryl mineral family and range in color from light green to a deep, rich green. The vibrant green color comes from small amounts of chromium and/or vanadium. Emeralds are considered a precious gemstone, with the most valuable emeralds exhibiting an intense green hue. Some famous emeralds include:
- The Hope Diamond – This 45.52 carat emerald exhibits a rare deep green color.
- The Moghul Emerald – Weighing 217.80 carats, it is one of the largest emeralds in the world.
- The Chalk Emerald – At 38.40 carats, it is one of North America’s largest cut emeralds.
Emeralds have long been prized in many cultures around the world. In ancient Egypt, emeralds were thought to represent fertility and rebirth. The Incas and Aztecs of South America also held emeralds in high regard. Today, emeralds remain one of the most valuable gemstones, with prices exceeding even those of diamonds. Their beauty and rarity make them a treasured green stone.
Green Birds
While most birds exhibit colors like red, yellow, blue, or brown, there are a number of bird species that are vivid green. The green coloration provides camouflage in the trees and grasslands where the birds live. Some of the most brilliant green birds include:
| Bird | Description |
|---|---|
| Green Jay | Bright lime green plumage with blue accents |
| Emerald Toucanet | Shiny emerald green body and yellow throat |
| Green Broadbill | Small bright green bird found in Southeast Asia |
The green color in birds is produced by unique structural features in their feathers that reflect green light. The green pigments help the birds blend into the rainforest canopy, allowing them to hunt insects and fruit while avoiding predators. When in flight, the brilliant green birds are a stunning sight against the verdant tropical backdrop. Seeing a flash of green dart through the trees serves as reminder of nature’s diverse beauty.
Turtles
Many species of turtle exhibit vibrant green coloration on their shells and skin. The green skin and shell help provide camouflage as the turtles bask on logs or hide in vegetation. Some of the most vivid green turtles include:
- Green Sea Turtle – The largest of the green turtles with an emerald green shell.
- Eastern Painted Turtle – Features green skin with red and yellow markings on shell.
- Green Anole – A small bright green lizard found throughout southeastern United States.
The green pigment comes from biliverdin, the same pigment that sometimes gives bruises their greenish color. Unlike some other reptiles, turtles cannot change their color, so the green provides constant natural camouflage. Threats from habitat loss have put many green turtle species at risk. Preserving their wetland ecosystems is crucial to protecting these beautiful green creatures.
Rainforests
Rainforests contain an astounding diversity of green plants and create a vivid emerald landscape. Tropical rainforests near the equator receive over 60 inches of rain per year, fueling dense plant growth. The canopy contains multiple shades of green leaves that provide camouflage and food for rainforest inhabitants. Below the canopy, a green world opens up, with mosses, herbs, shrubs, vines, and lichens covering nearly every surface. Some especially vibrant green rainforest plants include:
- Philodendron – A bright green vining plant with enormous leaves.
- Prayer Plant – A small plant with patterned green leaves that appear to fold up at night.
- Bromeliads – A family of tropical plants with rosettes of green leaves and exotic flowers.
The diversity of green colors and textures make rainforests a wonderland of natural beauty. But rainforest habitat is increasingly threatened by logging, agriculture, and climate change. Protecting these emerald forests is crucial for conserving the awe-inspiring biodiversity within.
Conclusion
The color green takes many splendid forms in the natural world. Vibrant emerald stones, vividly plumed birds, patterned green turtles, and lush rainforest landscapes all showcase nature’s green beauty. Appreciating plants, gemstones, and creatures exhibiting spectacular greens allows us to connect more deeply with the living world around us. As many green spaces face increasing threats from human activities, preserving pockets of emerald beauty becomes crucial for conserving these natural green wonders. Whether it’s a flashing parrot or a perfectly faceted emerald, greens in nature dazzle the eyes and renew the human spirit.
