Understanding the Meaning of the May Birthstone (2024)

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by Suzanne Sachs • 5 min read

THE BASICS --

Emerald is the May birthstone and this gorgeous precious gemstone can be a very sentimental and significant jewel not only for May birthdays, but to celebrate and commemorate any special day during the month. But just what is the meaning of the May birthstone, and what can it mean to you?

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW--

In this guide, we will explain the following:

• About the May Birthstone
• Factors to Consider When Choosing the May Birthstone
• Color
• Healing Properties
• Emerald Inclusions
• Emerald Structure
• Emerald Stone Meaning & Symbolism
• Color
• Geography
• Anniversaries
• Religion
• Culture
• Zodiac
• Celebrities
• Other May Birthstones
• What The May Birthstone May Mean To You

About The May Birthstone

Emerald, the birthstone for May, is a stunning gemstone known for its vibrant green color and captivating beauty. This precious stone has been cherished for centuries and is often associated with renewal, growth, and prosperity, reflecting the lush greenery of spring. Emeralds are part of the beryl family and owe their brilliant hue to trace amounts of chromium and vanadium.  Emerald has been used in jewelry and ornamentation for centuries and remains a popular choice for those born in May or anyone who appreciates its rich color and symbolism.

Factors to Consider When Choosing the May Birthstone

• Color 

Emeralds are renowned for their captivating green color, which ranges from a deep, lush green to a lighter, more vibrant hue. The rich green of an emerald is due to the presence of trace elements such as chromium and vanadium within the mineral beryl. The most prized emeralds exhibit a vivid, intense green with even color distribution and high transparency. Colombian emeralds are highly esteemed and considered some of the finest in the world due to their exceptional color and clarity. Mined primarily in the Boyacá region of Colombia, these emeralds are prized for their deep, vibrant green hue, which often has a slightly bluish tint.

• Healing Properties

Emeralds are cherished not only for their stunning beauty but also for their reputed healing properties. Believed to support heart health and enhance the immune system, these gemstones are thought to bring emotional balance, reduce stress, and promote inner peace. Associated with the heart chakra, emeralds are said to foster love, compassion, and spiritual growth, making them a powerful symbol of renewal and well-being.

“I've purchased two vintage rings from Suzanne over the past decade and my wife has loved both. Great service, communication and speedy delivery.”

— Lee S verified buyer

• Emerald Inclusions

Inclusions in emeralds, often referred to as "jardin" are a common characteristic of this precious gemstone. These inclusions can include various types of internal features such as mineral crystals, liquids, and gases that were trapped during the formation of the emerald. While inclusions might be considered flaws in other gemstones, in emeralds, they are often seen as a sign of authenticity and natural beauty. The unique patterns and formations of inclusions give each emerald its own character and charm. High-quality emeralds typically have fewer and less visible inclusions, but even stones with more pronounced inclusions can be highly valued if their color and overall appearance are exceptional.

• Emerald Structure

Emeralds are a variety of the mineral beryl, with a chemical composition of beryllium aluminum silicate. Their distinct green color is primarily due to trace amounts of chromium and sometimes vanadium. In terms of hardness, Emeralds have a hardness of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale, making them relatively hard but also somewhat brittle. This brittleness is due to the presence of inclusions and fractures, which are common in emeralds. Due to their crystal structure and the presence of inclusions, emeralds require careful handling and setting in jewelry to avoid damage. Despite these vulnerabilities, their captivating color and historical significance make emeralds one of the most prized gemstones in the world.

Emerald Stone Meaning & Symbolism

There can be many different meanings to an emerald, depending on what symbolism you want to consider. Which meaning you choose for the May birthstone will depend on which symbolism you prefer and how it makes the gem all the more significant for you. 

• Color

Emeralds range from light yellow-green to classic grass green to deep, rich, dark green with blue tones. The color green symbolizes fertility, nature, rebirth, and renewal, as well as relaxation and serenity. This can also mean peace and calmness. Emeralds might even be symbolic of school or sports team colors for fun connections.

 “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

• Geography

These luscious green stones are associated with Ireland, the Emerald Isle, or could be symbolic of where they are mined such as Colombia, Brazil, Australia, Egypt, Italy, Norway, or Canada. Emeralds are the official state gemstone of North Carolina, Seattle is known as the Emerald City, or the gem could be associated with Florida’s Emerald Coast.

• Anniversaries

The May birthstone is not only associated with a birth month, but is also the symbolic gemstone for the twentieth or thirty-fifth wedding anniversaries. Those numbers could mean even more if an emerald is given as a gift for someone’s twentieth or thirty-fifth birthday in the month of May.

• Religion

Emeralds have been associated with several faiths and could carry that symbolism for individuals. These gems are connected to the Christian apostle John the Evangelist, and are symbolic of the kindness and goodness of Christ. Emeralds are also associated with the Hindu god Krishna, and noted in several South American native faiths.

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• Culture

Emeralds have made some appearances throughout different cultures, and can be symbolic of those connections. For example, a Wizard of Oz fan might enjoy an emerald to represent the Emerald City, while a cruise fan might love the symbolism of an emerald engagement ring for a proposal on the Emerald Princess cruise ship.

• Zodiac

The emerald is traditionally the official gemstone of the Zodiac sign Cancer, with dates from June 21 through July 22. While this may not coincide with May, it does offer another option for a birthstone connection. More modern lists connect emeralds with the sign Taurus, from April 20 to May 20, which does line up with the May birthstone. 

• Celebrities

Anyone who feels a connection to certain celebrities can make that connection glitter with emeralds. These stunning stones have been favorites of Elizabeth Taylor, Jacqueline Kennedy, Halle Berry, Catherine the Great of Russia, Victoria Beckham, and more, and are even featured in the stunning Vladimir Tiara worn by Queen Elizabeth II.

Other May Birthstones

While emerald serves as the traditional birthstone for May, alternative systems of astrology and healing suggest various other gemstones and crystals that are believed to 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 onyx, alexandrite and pearl. 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.

What the May Birthstone Can Mean to You

With such worldwide popularity through history, culture, and more, emeralds can have many meanings and can be outstanding symbolic gems for that special engagement ring, promise ring, or other signature piece. Ultimately, whatever the gem means to you, however it feels most significant, is how symbolic it can be for your jewelry flair. You can even engineer your own meaning for the May birthstone through other aspects of jewelry design, presenting the gem in a meaningful way, or otherwise making the piece a significant addition to your jewelry repertoire. Once you understand the meaning of the May birthstone in a personal way, it will quickly become one of your favorite and most enjoyable gems.

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