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May Birthstone

Emerald

Growth, renewal, and prosperity

Month
May
Colours
Deep green to bluish-green

Shop Emerald Jewellery

Emerald Meaning & Symbolism

Emerald encourages wisdom, renewal, and harmony in personal and professional life. Its vivid green has been revered across cultures as a symbol of fertility, rebirth, and the colour of living things.

History & Origins of Emerald

Emerald has been treasured for over 6,000 years, with the earliest known mines located in Egypt and worked by Cleopatra herself, who claimed emerald as her signature gem. The Incas and Aztecs held emerald sacred, and Spanish conquistadors shipped vast quantities of Colombian emeralds back to Europe in the 16th century.

Roman philosopher Pliny the Elder wrote that "nothing greens greener," and noted that jewellers would rest their eyes on emeralds to relieve strain — one of the earliest references to the stone's soothing green. Today the finest emeralds come from Colombia, Zambia, and Brazil.

Who Should Wear Emerald

Emerald is the birthstone for May and suits anyone drawn to deep, saturated green. It flatters warm skin tones and looks stunning in yellow- and rose-gold settings. Emerald is the traditional 20th, 35th, and 55th wedding anniversary gemstone.

Caring for Emerald Jewellery

  • Clean only with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth
  • Never use ultrasonic or steam cleaners — most emeralds are oil-treated and cleaning can remove the treatment
  • Avoid household chemicals, perfumes, and chlorine
  • Store separately in a soft pouch

Emerald Frequently Asked Questions

What does emerald symbolise?
Growth, renewal, prosperity, and wisdom. It has been associated with fertility and foresight since antiquity.
Why are emeralds often included?
Most natural emeralds contain internal fractures called "jardin." These inclusions are a sign of natural origin rather than a flaw.
Are most emeralds treated?
The vast majority of emeralds are oil-treated to improve clarity — this is industry-standard and disclosed by reputable sellers.
Is emerald durable?
Emerald has a Mohs hardness of 7.5–8 but is brittle due to its natural inclusions; protective settings extend its life.
Which anniversary is emerald for?
Emerald is the traditional 20th, 35th, and 55th wedding anniversary gemstone.