May Birthstone - The Definitive Guide (2025)

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by Suzanne Sachs • 5 min read

THE BASICS --

Rich and vibrant, emerald is the ideal birthstone for May, a time when spring growth is in full flourish and new leaves, flowers, and grasses are emerging from fertile grounds. This gives emerald a very fertile history and great associations for any type of stunning jewelry. However, its captivating beauty transcends the boundaries of a particular month. The deeper you delve into the enchanting world of this gemstone, the more irresistibly drawn you become to wearing it every day, making it a timeless and versatile choice for any occasion throughout the year.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW--

In this guide, we will explain the following:

• About the May Birthstone
• May Birthstone Color
• Emerald Meaning
• Emerald Symbolism
• Emerald Crystal
• Emerald Healing Properties
• Vintage Emerald Rings and Jewelry
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Other May Birthstones
• Choosing the May Birthstone

About the May Birthstone

The May birthstone is emerald, a precious gemstone that belongs to the green variety of the mineral beryl. Emerald is a type of beryl (beryllium aluminum silicate), with its characteristic green color resulting from traces of chromium or vanadium within its hexagonal crystalline structure. Known for its vibrant hues and mesmerizing inclusions, emeralds are often found in smaller sizes due to their rarity and are mined in various regions worldwide.

Exceptional-quality emeralds are frequently sourced from Colombia, Zambia, and Brazil, though fine stones can also be found in Afghanistan, Ethiopia, Zimbabwe, and other active mines globally.

May Birthstone Color

While green is the signature color of the May birthstone, emerald actually displays a range of green hues, from light mint to deep, rich forest green. Undertones may vary, showing bluish or yellowish hints that add depth and uniqueness to each stone’s appearance. These undertones are influenced by trace elements like chromium or vanadium within the crystal structure, which contribute to the stone's distinct coloration.

The color of emeralds can change over time, as they are often treated with oils or resins to enhance their natural beauty. With age, these enhancements may gradually diminish, giving vintage emerald jewelry a subtle, delicate charm.

Emeralds with the darkest green and bluish undertones are typically the rarest and most sought-after. However, all hues carry their own unique beauty and elegance, making any shade of emerald a captivating choice.

“My experience with Vintage Diamond Ring was so excellent I really had to think about it for a while. First their selection of jewelry is profound. The quality is superior.”

—Claude P verified buyer

Emerald Meaning

The color green is typically associated with fertility, renewal, and rebirth, and so are luscious green emeralds. These gemstones are connected to nature and earth, and symbolize abundance and good fortunate, both in wealth and in other parts of life. Because the earth renews itself each year, emeralds are also often associated with immortality, longevity, and endurance, qualities often connected to platonic friendship as well as romantic relationships.

Emeralds are renowned for their association with love and compassion, often referred to as the 'stone of successful love.' They are believed to open and nurture the heart, promoting emotional harmony and deep, unconditional love.

Emerald Symbolism

In addition to being the official May birthstone, emerald is also the gemstone associated with the twentieth and thirty-fifth wedding anniversaries, as well as the Zodiac sign Taurus (April 20 to May 20).

The lush green of high-quality emeralds is often symbolic of renewal and growth, but its meaning goes far beyond that. Emeralds are associated with wisdom, harmony, and abundance, embodying a sense of balance and hope. Their vibrant green hue evokes the vitality of nature, making them a timeless symbol of love, rebirth, and prosperity.

Emerald Crystal

Emeralds can be used for many homeopathic and alternative practices, including meditation, cleanses, and ceremonies. These gems help align the heart chakras for both physical and emotional balance and well-being, and help promote relaxation and serenity that can enhance other thoughtful practices, including improving mental acuity and memory.

Because emeralds enhance peace and fulfillment, they can be a part of many spiritual practices, and are often included in altars, reflective spaces, or even elixirs. To make the most of an emerald’s spiritual properties, the gems should be used in full sunlight where their luster is its most powerful and it is possible to gaze deep into the stone.

Emerald Healing Properties

Emerald, has long been linked to a range of healing properties and advantages. The emerald is associated with the heart chakra, also known as Anahata in Sanskrit. This chakra is located in the center of the chest and is considered the fourth primary chakra in the body's energy system. The heart chakra is associated with love, compassion, emotional balance, and healing. Emerald, a precious green gemstone, is often linked to this chakra due to its color and energetic properties.

Emeralds are believed to help relieve depression and anxiety, much like being in nature – the stone’s closest association – can improve mental health. Emeralds are also believed to embody youthfulness while easing paranoia, promoting balance, and easing stomach or digestive ailments. Ancient alchemists also believed emeralds could be powerful antidotes to a wide range of poisons and toxins, though there is no modern medical evidence of such an association.

Vintage Emerald Rings and Jewelry

Emeralds have been valued for centuries, and therefore are easy to find in a wide range of vintage rings and jewelry styles. Often cut in the rectangular “emerald” shape to maximize beauty, color, and weight, as well as to put less pressure on the somewhat brittle stone, emeralds are found in many designs that evoke nature or have nature-inspired patterns such as flowers, leaves, or vines. This jewelry style was especially popular during the Victorian era, but emeralds are equally popular in Art Deco jewelry because of their bright color and bold geometry, both hallmarks of that design era.

 “Suzanne was amazing! I utilized the layaway service and it was a breeze. Ring made its way to Texas and was even more gorgeous in person."
— Chloe G verified buyer

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the birthstone for May?

The birthstone for May is emerald. This precious gemstone is renowned for its vibrant green hue, symbolizing renewal, growth, and prosperity. Emeralds have been cherished for centuries for their beauty and association with wisdom and love.

Are emeralds suitable for everyday wear?

Yes, emeralds can be worn daily with proper care and a protective setting. Avoid exposing them to harsh impacts, chemicals, or activities that may damage their surface.

What does emeralds symbolize?

Emeralds symbolize love, rebirth, and prosperity, often associated with renewal and growth. They are also believed to promote balance, harmony, and healing in relationships.

Other May Birthstones

While emerald is the traditional birthstone for May, alternative systems of astrology and healing suggest various other gemstones and crystals that resonate with the energies and traits of May birthdays. Depending on one's astrological perspective or spiritual beliefs, alternative birthstones associated with May birthdays may include alexandrite, agate, chrysoprase, and carnelian. These stones are thought to complement and harmonize with the unique qualities and characteristics of those born under the sign of Taurus and May birthdays.

Choosing the Ideal May Birthstone

The May birthstone offers not only a stunning gemstone but also a rich history filled with symbolism and meaning. By discovering the unique qualities of these vintage pieces, you'll be well-equipped to choose a ring that reflects your personal style and story. Explore our collection of vintage emerald rings and find the perfect piece to celebrate your journey and create lasting memories for years to come.

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!

Suzanne Sachs

Suzanne has always believed vintage rings can change lives. She's been in the jewelry industry for over 35 years, working with vintage jewelers, diamond dealers, diamond cutters, and gemologists. Suzanne started Artdecodiamonds in 2000 and understood the demand for vintage rings throughout the world. She ultimately started VintageDiamondRing.com in 2014, and understands each vintage ring is a reflection of you – your history, your relationships, your style, your elegance and is honored to have the opportunity to help you showcase your flair in a unique and exquisite way.