May Birthstone - The Definitive Guide (2023)
by Suzanne Sachs • 5 min read
THE BASICS --
The birthstone for the month of May is the exquisite emerald, a gemstone revered for its captivating green hue and timeless beauty. Known as the gemstone of love, rebirth, and growth, the emerald holds a special place in the hearts of those born in May. The allure of emeralds goes far beyond just one month. As you discover more about this exquisite gemstone, you'll find yourself yearning to wear it every day, regardless of the season.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW--
In this guide, we will explain the following:
- About the May Birthstone
- May Birthstone Colors
- May Birthstone Formation
- May Birthstone Meaning & Symbolism
- Zodiac Signs By the Month: Taurus
- Growth & Renewal Symbolism
- Wisdom and Intuition
- 20th and 35th Year Anniversary
- Prosperity and Abundance Symbolism
- Crystal Uses
- Healing properties
- Emerald Care Tips?
- May Birthstone Jewelry
- Choosing the May Birthstone
About the May Birthstone
Emerald is a gemstone and a variety of the mineral beryl. It is specifically known for its vibrant green color, which is caused by traces of chromium and sometimes vanadium. The crystal structure of emerald belongs to the hexagonal system. The chromium and vanadium impurities within the crystal lattice give emerald its characteristic green color.
Emeralds are mined in various locations around the world. Some of the most notable emerald mining regions are Columbia, Zambia, Brazil, and the United States. Each mining location may produce emeralds with unique characteristics and qualities, and the availability of emeralds can vary over time.
May Birthstone Colors
While green is the only color for emerald, the stone actually comes in many different green shades, ranging from intense green, yellowish-green, light green to bluish green. The colors of an emerald can vary based on factors such as the origin, the presence of other trace elements, and the specific gemstone's quality. The most valuable emeralds are often those that display a vibrant and pure green color without excessive yellow or blue undertones.
May Birthstone Formation
Chromium Content enhances emerald’s color, and the presence of chromium is primarily responsible for the green color of emeralds. The clarity and transparency of an emerald can also impact its color appearance. Emeralds with high transparency and minimal internal inclusions or fractures allow light to pass through more easily, resulting in a more vibrant and saturated color. Emeralds originating from Columbia with a pure green color with minimum inclusions are the rarest color combination, and therefore often considered the most valuable. Other hues can be equally attractive, however, and should be considered for their own individual beauty.
May Birthstone Meaning & Symbolism
As the May birthstone, emeralds have long been associated with love and affection. They are believed to symbolize unity, compassion, and unconditional love. Emeralds are often exchanged as gifts to express deep emotions and strengthen relationships.
• Zodiac Signs By The Month: Taurus
Emeralds are associated with the birth sign Taurus (April 20 to May 20) Taurus is an earth sign known for its stability, practicality, and sensuality. The lush green color of emerald resonates with the earthy energy of Taurus and is believed to enhance the positive traits of this sign.
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• Growth and Renewal Symbolism
The lush green color of emeralds is connected to the symbolism of growth and renewal. They represent vitality, fertility, and the rejuvenation of nature. Emeralds are seen as a symbol of new beginnings and the potential for personal growth and transformation.
• Wisdom and Intuition
Emeralds are associated with wisdom, insight, and intuition. They are believed to enhance mental clarity, intuition, and spiritual awareness. Emeralds are often considered a stone of wisdom and are used to stimulate intellectual abilities and enhance discernment.
20th and 35th Year Anniversary
In addition to being the official May birthstone, emerald is also the gemstone associated with the twentieth and thirty-fifth wedding anniversaries.
• Prosperity and Abundance Symbolism
The deep, rich green of high quality emeralds are is often symbolic and regarded as stones of prosperity and abundance. They are believed to attract wealth, success, and good fortune, but that isn’t the only meaning behind such a glorious green color. Emeralds have healing properties and are believed to have a positive impact on physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.
Crystal Uses
Emeralds are not commonly used as a crystal for metaphysical or spiritual purposes. Instead, it is primarily known and valued for its beauty as a gemstone. However, some individuals may still choose to work with emerald as a crystal for its energetic properties. Emeralds are believed to have a heart-opening energy, promoting love, compassion, and emotional healing. It can be used during meditation or placed on the heart chakra to foster a deeper connection with oneself and others.
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Healing Properties
This widespread stone also has purported healing properties. Some believe that emerald has healing properties and can support physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. It may be used in crystal healing practices to help restore balance, boost vitality, and promote overall healing. Emeralds are associated with clear communication and effective expression. It may assist in expressing thoughts and emotions with clarity, assertiveness, and compassion. Keeping an emerald near you or wearing it as jewelry can support open and honest communication.
Emerald Care Tips
Before you try any special care, cleaning or adjustments for an emerald ring, a thorough, professional inspection is essential. A jeweler experienced with emerald rings can spot any potential weaknesses or excessive wear in the setting that could lead to stone loss or misalignment.
May Birthstone Jewelry
With so many uses for this beautiful gemstone, it is no surprise that emeralds have been a popular choice for many vintage rings and other jewelry pieces. Art Deco emerald rings are highly sought after for their unique and glamorous designs that reflect the style of the Art Deco era, which was prominent from the 1920s to the 1940s. Look for vintage emerald jewelry in cocktail rings, pendants, earrings, brooches, and other outstanding pieces to add this beautiful gem to all your jewelry fashion.
Choosing The May Birthstone
Discover the beauty in the May birthstone and you'll soon agree that every emerald ring has precious qualities that make it charming and unique.
Vintage Engagement Rings For Everyone:
No matter which era is your favorite, these time-honored rings have a rich history and individualized character and will continue to have a timeless beauty and elegant appeal that is part of a legacy to pass on to future generations.
Find The Perfect Engagement Ring:
Vintage rings are prized not only for their beauty but also for their exquisite attention to detailing and faceting. If you’re looking for a ring with a sense of glamour, sophistication and vintage charm, explore our collection of May Birthstone Rings today!
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