Finding the perfect gift takes time, no matter what special occasion you may be shopping for. If you’re searching for a shower gift, birthday gift, or anniversary present, birthstone jewelry is an incredible way to show your love. If your loved one is lucky enough to have a May birthstone, an emerald jewelry piece will present you with many stunning options.
Our emerald jewelry experts have compiled a May birthstone shopping guide to share the meaning behind this head-turning gemstone. We’ll also give you a peek at our favorite emerald jewelry pieces to consider, no matter what her style may be.
The Story Behind Birthstones
The wearing of birthstone gems traces back to biblical times, where they were worn on the armor of Aaron as he marched into battle. Each of the 12 stones worn on his breastplate was believed to create a powerful shield of protection. They were meant to harness incredible power and good fortune when worn in unison.
Around the 8th century, it was still quite common for people to collect and wear all 12 gemstones. Then, a slight shift was seen as it became the belief that each stone may provide greater power when worn individually.
Word began to spread of the new ritual, and wearers worldwide took heed. Each stone was now worn during its corresponding birth month. The belief was that this new ritual enabled harnessing each stone's most significant power.
By the 16th century, the gemstones officially became a birthstone tradition. With this shift, rather than collect all 12 gemstones, the ritual was to wear the stone of your corresponding birth month. While there were still many who believed in the powers of these birthstones, others chose to wear them for their beauty or sentimental reasons.
Where Do I Find My Birthstone?
In 1912, The National Association of Jewelers began developing the modern-day list of birthstones. While there are three recognized lists of birthstones, some months may include more than one gemstone.
The 3 Birthstone Lists
- ancient
- traditional
- modern
It is not surprising that gemstones on the ancient list are the most widely recognized, as they’ve been worn for thousands of years. Gems on the traditional list have been used for roughly the last 500 years. Over the last 100 years, we have witnessed the modern list of birthstones rise in popularity and become the most widely used.
What is the Significance of Birthstones?
While birthstones may no longer hold religious meanings, many people still believe they hold power to bestow good fortune, health, and wellness to the wearer. In addition, each birthstone is believed to hold benefits of love, wealth, emotional healing.
The birthstone itself makes a meaningful and unique jewelry gift, even if the wearer does not believe in the powers of gemstones. So, whether you’re gifting a loved one their birthstone or one to represent a child, grandchild, or significant other, it undoubtedly makes an incredible keepsake.
What is May’s Birthstone?
The gorgeous emerald is your stone if you are shopping for a May birthstone. Emeralds are rich in color, and the word emerald means green. This beautiful gemstone is formed when chromium, vanadium, and iron are present in the mineral beryl. Therefore, an emerald's range of hues is determined by the varying presence of these three elements.
What Does the May Birthstone Symbolize?
The Mogul emperors of India believed these gemstones were talismans, offering them the protection of the gods. In mythology, the gem was associated with the goddess Venus, creating a strong association with romance, passion, and unconditional love.
Some legends say wearing an emerald gives one the ability to foresee the future and know all truths. It was also believed that the emerald held power to cure diseases and protect the wearer against evil.
The emerald birthstone also represents:
- rebirth
- good fortune
- foresight
- fidelity
- true love
- wit
- bliss
- truth
- eloquence
Our Favorite Emerald Jewelry Gift Ideas
We want you to enjoy yourself as you search for the ideal emerald jewelry gift. Our May birthstone experts have compiled an incredible emerald jewelry list to help you select something special for your loved one. From earrings to emerald pendant necklaces, we have plenty of May birthstone jewelry options she’s sure to fall in love with.
A favorite of many emerald enthusiasts is our Emerald and Diamond Bracelet. The rich tone of the gem is stunning set within its 18K white gold setting. In addition, we love how formal it is, allowing her to wear it on special evenings out.
If the special lady in your life loves a bit of sparkle on her lobes, we highly suggest the White Gold Diamond and Emerald Huggie Earrings. These exquisite birthstone earrings are a wonderful way to represent her birthday or that of a child’s or grandchild’s.
As always, our Sabel Collection offers a gorgeous assortment of birthstone jewelry gifts that will capture any woman’s heart. We suggest gifting her a pair of May Birthstone and Diamond Halo Stud Earrings. The deep green sparkle from this pair of May birthstone studs is ideal for everyday wear.
These earrings make the perfect emerald jewelry gift, set in finely crafted white gold. They offer a hint of vintage design, ideal for your special lady. You may also wish to pair them with the matching emerald pendant.
Our Sabel Collection Round Emerald Birthstone Pendant Necklace is a dainty yet dazzling gift choice. The May birthstone hangs beautifully from an 18-inch 14k white gold chain. We love emerald jewelry set in white gold and feel it makes an ideal gift option for its vintage details and versatility.
Perhaps one of our favorite May birthstone gifts is the exquisite emerald halo ring. The Emerald and Diamond Halo Birthstone Ring features a beautiful 7mm stone with .20 cttw diamonds accentuating this emerald jewelry piece.
Why Should You Consider a Custom May Birthstone Gift?
While many emerald jewelry gift options offer beauty and sentimental value, gifting a custom birthstone piece is a unique idea. Imagine her surprise when she hears you’ve created her a one-of-a-kind jewelry keepsake with a May birthstone. When you choose to design a custom emerald jewelry gift, you’ll have complete creative control and the freedom to design a piece as unique as she is.
At Fink’s, we have a knowledgeable team of custom jewelry designers to assist you throughout the custom design process. In addition, our jewelers will work closely with you to bring your May birthstone visions to reality.
Our team can help you create an original piece, recreate a ring she’s been admiring, or incorporate a family heirloom into your design. From your vision to the upkeep of her jewelry, we’re here for all your fine jewelry needs.
Celebrate your loved one with an emerald jewelry birthstone gift she will always treasure.
