It’s amazing to know that every month has its own birthstone. If you are a May baby, congratulations! We are going to talk about your birthstone, which is Emerald.  The May birthstone is an emerald, which belongs to the beryl gem family and is prized for its vivid green color. Emerald is distinguished by its own inclusions, or “Jardin.” Emeralds, once the preferred colored gemstone of royalty, are now highly prized globally, being considered one of the “Big 3” colored gemstones together with sapphires and rubies. 

Not only are they beautiful, but their jewelry can be found in a wide variety of price points, making them suitable as traditional gifts for birthdays, special moments or anniversaries.

Emeralds Birthstone Meaning and History 

Emeralds were first mined or known in Egypt around 1500 BC. For more than thousands of years, the emerald has been treasured by many civilizations. Ancient Egyptians, in particular Cleopatra, loved emeralds because they symbolized eternal youth for them. Meanwhile, in ancient Rome, they were associated with Venus, the goddess of love. During the Middle Ages, emeralds were a prominent gemstone in European jewelry and ornamentation, particularly for kings and queens. Spanish invaders looted South American mines of emeralds in the 16th century, placing the area on the gemstone map.

The emerald has come to symbolize wisdom, protection, and growth across ages. The rich cultural heritage gives meaning to emeralds as a gift for any person born in May.

The Beauty of Emeralds: Color and Clarity 

Emeralds, are  synonymous with the color green. They  are the very definition of the vibrant hue of green. As the May birthstone, it symbolize spring, renewal, and lush gardens. The most desirable emeralds range from bluish-green to pure green with vivid saturation and a medium to deep tone.

Unique to emeralds are their natural inclusions, known as “jardin” (French for garden), which add character to each stone. While clarity is valued, it’s the rich, vivid color that truly defines an emerald’s beauty.

How to Choose the Perfect Emerald?

Choosing an emerald requires regard to several factors, which include:

  • Color: Get an emerald with a deep, vivid green color. The more intense the color, the greater the value of the emerald.
  • Clarity: Eye inclusions are very common; look for an emerald with high transparency. However, avoid stones that have large, visible inclusions that really affect the appearance of the stone.
  • Cut: A fine cut in an emerald brings out the color and brilliance of the stone. It should be symmetric, enabling penetration of light through the stone with a lot of sparkle.
  • Carat Weight: Large emeralds are of higher value and are rare. Balance size with quality to find a stone that offers the best of both.

These factors will help you pick a May birthstone ring or earring that is not just beautiful but also valuable.

Where is Emerald Found? 

Major sources of emeralds are from three countries:

  • Colombia: These Colombian emeralds are deep, rich green, and considered to be among the finest in the world.
  • Brazil: The Brazilian emeralds are light green and have fine clarity.
  • Zambia: The deep green color of Zambian emeralds with a bluish tint makes them truly special. They often have fewer inclusions than any other emerald-producing country.

Other region’s major suppliers of emeralds globally are Afghanistan and Madagascar.

Caring for Your Emerald Jewelry 

Emeralds are beautiful stones but very fragile; they require special care:

  • Cleaning: Clean the emerald jewelry with mild soap and warm water. You can clean with a soft-bristled brush to remove any dirt. Never use harsh chemicals or cleaners that abrade or use ultrasonic cleaners.
  • Handling: Emeralds are softer than most other gemstones, hence extra care while handling emerald jewelry to avoid scratches or chips.
  • Storage: keep your emerald jewelry separately from other pieces of jewelry to avoid scratching. Wrap them in a soft cloth or in a jewelry case that has separate compartments.
  • Heat Avoidance: Heat and extreme fluctuations in temperature can make an emerald crack.

If well cared for, your emerald jewelry remains great and shining for many years.

What are the Benefits of Wearing Emerald? 

Thinking of buying emerald jewelry? These are the reasons you should:

  1. Prosperity and Abundance

Embody emerald energy to attract abundance and prosperity. This gemstone is thought to bring money and success, helping you achieve your goals.

  1. Peace and Healing

Emerald promotes emotional and physical healing. This is supposed to relax the soul and reduce tension. Let Emerald restore balance and harmony in your life.

  1. Love and  Relationships

Emerald, the May birthstone, symbolizes love, loyalty, and commitment. It may strengthen romantic bonds and build lifelong love. Let this lovely diamond be your love talisman.

Emeralds are pretty popular for modern jewelry. The most popular among all May birthstone jewelry must be the rings, earrings, and pendants. 

  • Rings: It is something unusual but refreshing as a substitute for a diamond in an engagement ring. Their deep green color looks fabulous when paired with diamonds or any other gemstone of your choice. 
  • Earrings: Emerald May birthstone earrings bring elegance and class to any attire. From simple studs to long drops, they have become timeless, versatile pieces.
  • Pendants: Stylish and elegant, emerald pendants may be simple but make a wonderful fashion statement by adding color to any attire. Truly beautiful gifts for those born in May or to anyone who loves the beauty of an emerald.

Conclusion

Without a doubt, emeralds are among the most mesmerizing jewels ever created. Rings, pendants, earring drops, etc., adorned with May birthstone, is a popular choice for celebratory events and for daily wear of men and women.  

The inclusions and the bright green hue make each emerald very unique. Whether it be their beauty or powers, emeralds are a treasure to be cherished. 

If you’re interested in purchasing them for your collection or as gifts, make sure to buy from a reputable and esteemed dealer.