NASA Ames is named in honor of Joseph Sweetman Ames, a physicist and one of the founding members of NACA. At last estimate NASA Ames has over US$3.0 billion in capital equipment, 2,300 research personnel and a US$860 million annual budget.
USES. Emerald is one of the most valuable gemstones. It is the most famous green gemstone, and its deep emerald-green color gives it its unique status. It is used in all forms of jewelry, and less transparent stones are cut into cabochons.
Types of Emeralds. By Amber Kelsey. The emerald gemstone is a variety of the beryl mineral. The beryl turns green due to chromium and vanadium impurities. There are several different types of emeralds, most of which are named for their country of origin. Columbian emeralds are mined in Columbia.