Wonderfully rich in colour, with their energising green hues, it’s time to meet the mesmerising birthstone for May…the enchanting emerald. Symbolising a month of renewal and vibrancy, and the sense that summer is just around the corner, the emerald perfectly encapsulates the spirit of this special month.
Want to Know More About the Emerald Birthstone?
Ranging from velvety deep greens to lively, bright shades, emeralds are a testament to the wonders of nature and have been coveted for millennia thanks to their striking hue and spiritual and historical connotations. Their colour is often associated with the lush landscapes of spring, making them a fitting birthstone for May, a month that heralds the awakening of nature after the long winter slumber.
Emeralds are rightly regarded as one of the traditional “Big 4” gems (along with ruby, diamond, and sapphire) and are said to have first been discovered way back in ancient Egyptian times. In fact, the oldest emeralds are thought to be around 2.9 billion years old!! Originally mined in Egypt from around 330 BC and into the 1700s, the emerald was said to be Cleopatra’s favourite gem, and ancient Egyptian mummies were often buried wearing an Emerald carved with the symbol of verdure. Nowadays, emeralds are a little more readily available and over 50% of the world’s emeralds now come from mines in Columbia. Zambia, Russia, Brazil and Madagascar are other known sources of this magnificent gemstone.
Aside from their fascinating history and spiritual properties, it’s the emerald’s striking beauty and multitude of shades that makes it stand out as an incredibly desirable gemstone. Generally speaking, the deeper and more vivid the green, the more valuable it is, and some of the most valuable emeralds actually have an almost blueish tinge to them. Adaptable to any metal, and whether adorning rings, earrings, bracelets or antique brooches, the eye-catching emerald brings a wonderful splash of colour to any outfit or occasion.
Did you know? It’s very rare to find flawless emeralds owing to the way in which they are formed, and in fact, it is their flaws and inclusions that make them as valuable as they are. These flaws are often what distinguish real emeralds from synthetic imitations!
What Are the Properties and Symbolism of Emeralds?
May’s birthstone is steeped in rich historical and cultural significance. Throughout many cultures, and even now, emeralds have been attributed to being a source of rejuvenation and are thought to symbolise good fortune and healing. In historical legend, it was also thought that wearing emeralds granted the wearer the ability to foretell to the future! In the realm of crystal healing, emeralds are considered therapeutic gems, known for their ability to open and activate the heart chakra. This makes them powerful tools for fostering emotional balance, compassion, and unconditional love.
Enchanting May Birthstone Jewellery
May’s birthstone, the emerald, is a gem that transcends time, weaving together history, tradition, and modern style. Whether you’re drawn to its historical significance, its mesmerising colour, or the endless possibilities for customisation, emerald birthstone jewellery is truly a gift that comes from the heart. Embrace the enchantment of emeralds and celebrate the May birthdays in your life with a token as unique and beautiful as they are.
Take a look through our stunning full collection of May Birthstone Emerald jewellery here.