Spring is yet to get over, the flowers are yet to fold their petals, reminding you that its the May month. This month is remarkable in every sense. The blooming flowers, fresh breeze, and bright sunshine tell us that life is about hope and new beginnings. The birthstone for May-the Emerald well states the same significance. Adorning this gem as jewelry is an excellent experience for some, while its benefits are blessings for others. Let’s explore this birth stone more.
What is May’s Birthstone?
So, it’s one of the precious green gems that makes the perfect stone for this month. The word “emerald” comes from the Greek word ” Smaragdus, ” meaning “green.” They are formed from beryl minerals and have the chemical formula Be3Al2(SiO3)6. Beryl, in its natural state, is colorless but, when interacted with trace elements during crystal formation, gives a colored component. This colored crystal or gemstone is emerald, and the trace elements responsible for providing the color include chromium, vanadium, and iron. It is often termed natural beryl in most of the marketplace based on the name of the mineral it is obtained. These green gems are found in Columbia, Zambia, Brazil, and Afghanistan.
History of May gemstone
An emerald birthstone is known by different names, such as Marakatha in Sanskrit and Zamarrud in Persian. It has been valued for various uses in many cultures. These precious gems symbolized power, money, and status in Egypt. They were adorned by the kings and queens as a significant stone in their high end jewelry, especially the crowns. Cleopatra, the queen of Egypt, admired these green gems the most and used to give them to the higher officials as a token of reward.
Since then, these stones were named after her as Cleopatra gems. Even the mines from which they were obtained were called Cleoptara mines. In many ancient cultures, Zamarrud was a signifier of fertility, youth, and immortality. It was associated with growth, prosperity, and love. That is why they were often left in the burials of the dead so that the individual could have a prosperous afterlife. As per the belief of Aztec and Inca cultures, like other precious gems, this may stone was also worshipped as a symbol of gods.
What color is may birthstone
Color is an essential factor that gives identity to the stone. It also reflects the meaning of the gem. For instance, the birthstone color of May is green, and emeralds beautifully display this hue. The actual color of this stone resembles the lush green forests or green landscapes. This primary hue is accompanied by secondary overtones such as yellow and blue. The color variation is due to the difference in origin and the concentration of the trace elements.
The higher the chromium content, the more greenish the stone looks. Colombian emeralds are the ones that exhibit a vivid, lush green hue. On the contrary, these natural beryl stones from Brazil and Zambia feature yellow and blue overtones, respectively. So, if you think these gems were only green, check these from other sources as well.
Emerald Green Birthstone Meaning and Symbolism
Birth stones are a collection of various precious and semi-precious stones that hold specific significance in an individual’s life. These are specific for each month. Likewise, the emerald birthstone is in May, and it’s lucky for those born this month.
There is a history behind why gems for each month are assigned. In earlier times, it was believed that Aaron’s breastplate, the head of the Israelite priesthood, contained twelve gemstones. These signified the tribes of Israel and showcased their cultural beliefs. Later, these gems were classified as birth stones.
Each of the twelve gems is thought to provide the wearer with good fortune and prosperity. Green is for growth, prosperity, spring, happiness, and renewal, and thus is the perfect color of May. Since nothing can portray the beauty of this hue other than the natural emerald, it is justified as the gemstone for the month of May.
In Western astrology, gems are believed to have cosmic energy. This energy benefits the wearer in many aspects of life. Legends believed that this gemstone symbolizes high intelligence and intuition. It has a strong healing power that provides the wearer with soothing energy.
The color of May birthstone is relaxing; it aids relief in eye strain, headaches, and depression. So, if anyone in your loved ones is suffering from these ailments, this gemstone can be a meaningful gift. However, it is for a specific month, but is a helpful stone for anyone looking for spiritual, astrological, and health benefits.
The Best May Birth Stone Jewelry to Consider
Gemstone jewelry has always been admired for its visual appeal. These adornments become more meaningful if the gem signifies your birth month. So, whether its you or your loved ones born in spring month, gifting this gem is thoughtful. You can either buy a loose gemstone or jewelry. If the second option is in your mind, you can have a look at some of the recommendations:
- Emerald Solitaire Ring
Nothing is more beautiful than simplicity; a solitaire design defines it best. A solitaire ring featuring this may gemstone expresses you as an individual personality. The refreshing color of the stone signifies growth, prosperity, and happiness. Keep it for yourself or gift it to your loved ones; this jewelry will always exude its natural beauty. For those born in may, this precious solitaire ring is a fantastic gift that reflects the qualities of the wearer. In astrology, zodiac signs that can wear this precious gem include Gemini, Virgo, and Taurus. So, what’s better than jewelry that reflects your identity? This May birth stone may be the best one.
- Emerald Pendant Necklace
This exquisite gemstone necklace celebrates the spirit of spring. Whatever the metal, the classic color of this stone complements it nicely. Gold or silver chains that hang this natural gem activate the heart chakra. Unblocking the chakra helps an individual infuse feelings of love, compassion, and empathy. So, gifting your loved ones with jewelry that also offers healing benefits is precious.
- Emerald Earrings
This piece of adornment is enough to make you look as stylish as ever. From everyday accessories to party wear, emerald studs or dangle earrings stand out from plain gold jewelry. Complimenting them with diamonds enhances their value and beauty. This is a simple yet timeless gift for May babies.
If you think these gemstones are only for those born in a specific month, then you are wrong. These precious stones are perfect jewelry for everyone. One should always be cautious while buying them, as in the marketplace, green beryls are sold as emeralds. Thus, one should buy May gemstones from reputed gem dealers like Navratan only. Apart from loose gems, you can customize your jewelry as per your taste and preferences.