Pachu Stone And Zamurd Stone – Regional Names Of Emerald (Panna)

Emerald, known in Hindi as Panna, is one of the most captivating gemstones in the world, admired for its lush green color and strong astrological significance. In different regions, cultures, and languages, this beautiful stone has been given various names. Two of the most popular alternative names are Pachu Stone and Zamurd Stone. While all three terms—Panna, Pachu, and Zamurd—refer to the same gemstone, they are used in different locations depending on linguistic and cultural influences.

This article explores the meaning, origin, and significance of Pachu Stone and Zamurd Stone, along with their connection to the universally recognized Emerald.

Emerald – The Parent Name (Panna)
Before we discuss the regional names, it’s essential to understand what Emerald is. Emerald is a precious gemstone belonging to the Beryl mineral family and is prized for its vivid green to bluish-green hue. The stone owes its color to trace amounts of chromium and vanadium in its structure. In astrology, Emerald is associated with the planet Mercury (Budh), and wearing it is believed to bring wisdom, improved communication skills, and success in intellectual pursuits.

In India, the term Panna is widely used in Hindi-speaking regions. However, different communities have developed their own local names for this gemstone—Pachu Stone and Zamurd Stone being prominent among them.

 
Pachu Stone – The Southern and Eastern Connection
The name Pachu Stone is commonly used in southern parts of India, especially in states like Tamil Nadu and Kerala, and also in certain eastern regions like West Bengal and Odisha. The term “Pachu” is derived from local languages—such as Tamil and Malayalam—where Pachai means “green.” Over time, the word evolved to Pachu in the gemstone trade, referring directly to the green color of Emerald.

Why the Name Pachu?

Color Reference – The green hue of Emerald naturally inspired its name in Dravidian languages, where green (pachai) became a core identifier.
Cultural Adaptation – Local gem merchants and buyers adapted the term to suit their pronunciation and linguistic traditions.
Trade Influence – In southern India, the gemstone trade often used native words to make the gem more relatable to local buyers, which helped popularize “Pachu” as a distinct term.
In astrology, Pachu Stone is prescribed for the same benefits as Panna: strengthening Mercury’s influence, improving mental clarity, and enhancing communication.

 
Zamurd Stone – The Persian and Urdu Influence
Zamurd (also spelled Zumurud or Zamarrud) has roots in Arabic and Persian languages, where it has long been used to describe Emerald. The term entered the Indian subcontinent through historical trade, the Mughal era, and Persian cultural influence, particularly in the northwestern regions of India and Pakistan.

Why the Name Zamurd?

Historical Trade Routes – Persian traders brought gemstones, including Emeralds, into the subcontinent, and their native word “Zamurrud” became widely accepted.
Mughal Patronage – The Mughal emperors, known for their love of gemstones, often referred to Emeralds as Zamurd in their court records and jewelry descriptions.
Cultural Integration – In Urdu-speaking communities, the term Zamurd became the standard, even in gemstone markets.
Today, in Pakistan and parts of North India, the term Zamurd is as common as Panna when referring to Emeralds.

Pachu, Zamurd, and Panna – One Stone, Many Names
Despite the different names, Pachu Stone, Zamurd Stone, and Panna all refer to the same gemstone—Emerald. The variation in naming is primarily due to:

Regional Language Differences – Words adapted to fit local dialects.
Historical Influence – Persian, Mughal, and trade networks brought their own terminology.
Marketing Adaptation – Jewelers often used familiar local terms to help customers identify the stone easily.
 
Physical and Astrological Properties of Pachu/Zamurd/Panna
Mineral Family: Beryl
Color: Rich green to bluish-green
Hardness: 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale
Associated Planet: Mercury (Budh)
Astrological Benefits:

Enhances communication and learning abilities
Boosts creativity and problem-solving skills
Promotes financial growth and business success
Helps in developing balanced thinking and emotional stability
Whether called Pachu or Zamurd, the stone must be natural and untreated to deliver astrological benefits. Synthetic or heavily treated Emeralds are not considered effective for planetary remedies.

 
Famous Sources of Emeralds (Pachu/Zamurd)
Emeralds are mined in various parts of the world, but some of the most notable sources include:

Colombia – Known for deep, pure green Emeralds.
Zambia – Produces slightly bluish-green Emeralds with good clarity.
Brazil – Offers lighter green Emeralds often used in jewelry.
India – Historically famous for Jaipur’s gemstone cutting and trading markets.
 
Buying Tips for Pachu or Zamurd Stone
When purchasing a Pachu or Zamurd Stone, ensure:

Authenticity – Always demand a gemstone certification from a reputable gemological lab.
Clarity – Natural Emeralds have inclusions, but excessive cracks can affect durability.
Color – Rich, vivid green stones are most valued.
Cut – An expert cut enhances the stone’s brilliance and astrological potency.
 
Conclusion
Pachu Stone and Zamurd Stone are simply regional names for the same beautiful gemstone—Emerald or Panna. While “Pachu” finds its roots in southern and eastern Indian languages, “Zamurd” reflects Persian and Urdu influence. Despite the difference in terminology, the stone’s beauty, rarity, and astrological significance remain the same.