Emerald: A Complete Guide to the May Birthstone

As spring reaches its peak and nature flourishes in full colour, May arrives with a spirit of growth, renewal, and quiet sophistication. It’s a month symbolic of fresh beginnings making it the perfect time to celebrate May birthdays with a gemstone that’s equally vibrant and meaningful: the emerald, the official May birthstone.

From its rich history and powerful symbolism to expert tips on choosing and caring for emerald jewellery, this guide will take you through everything you need to know about this captivating green gemstone.

A Brief History of Emerald as the May Birthstone

The emerald gemstone has long been associated with beauty, power, and prosperity. Ancient civilizations including the Egyptians, Romans, and Incas revered the stone for its deep green colour—often linking it to fertility, rebirth, and eternal life. Cleopatra was famously enamoured with emeralds, wearing them as symbols of divine wisdom and royal status.

Historically, emeralds were also believed to hold healing properties, used by ancient healers to treat physical ailments and offer protection against negative energies. This spiritual significance aligns perfectly with May’s themes of growth, vitality, and new life making emeralds an ideal birthstone for those born under the Taurus and Gemini zodiac signs.

Over the centuries, the emerald has remained one of the most sought-after gemstones. Its rich colour and rarity continue to make it a timeless choice for birthstone jewellery, adding elegance to any collection.

Emerald Jewellery Ideas for May Birthdays

Whether you’re celebrating a milestone birthday or simply want to treat someone special, here are a few of our favourite emerald jewellery ideas:

• Emerald and Diamond Tennis Bracelet
  Crafted in 18ct Yellow Gold, this exquisite bracelet features 1.94ct of emeralds and 0.83ct of diamonds, making it a statement gift that radiates elegance and glamour.
• Emerald and Diamond Huggie Earrings
  With 0.40ct of emeralds set in 18ct White Gold, these dainty earrings are perfect for everyday luxury—ideal for those who love a subtle yet stunning sparkle.
• Diamond and Emerald Cluster Ring
  Set in 18ct Yellow Gold with brilliant diamond shoulders, this eye-catching ring is a timeless piece she’ll treasure forever.

Whatever you choose, an emerald birthstone gift is sure to impress and put a smile on her face.

How to Care for Your Emerald Jewellery

While emeralds are undeniably stunning, they require a bit more care than other gemstones due to their natural inclusions. To maintain their luster and beauty, here are some essential care tips:

Keep Emeralds Away from Harsh Chemicals – Avoid exposing your emerald jewellery to cleaners, perfumes, or lotions. These substances can dull the surface or cause damage over time.

Store Your Jewellery Properly – Store emerald pieces separately in a soft pouch or lined box to prevent scratches. For added protection, wrap them in a soft cloth before putting them away.

Clean Gently – Use mild soap, warm water, and a soft cloth. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners or abrasive brushes. Gently wipe and thoroughly dry your pieces to maintain their natural glow.

Schedule Regular Checkups – If you purchased your emerald jewellery from us pop in-store to have it inspected by our experts at least once a year. They’ll check for loose stones or signs of wear, ensuring your treasured piece remains secure and beautiful.

By following these simple tips, your emerald jewellery will remain as beautiful and captivating as ever, making it a cherished piece for generations.

Whether you’re drawn to a bold statement piece or a delicate design, emeralds offer the perfect balance of sophistication and timeless appeal. Their deep green hue makes them a meaningful gift that celebrates May birthdays, new beginnings, and enduring elegance.

At Aleks Jewellers in Norwich, our expert team is here to help you find the perfect emerald gemstone gift whether it’s for a loved one or yourself. Visit us today for personalised guidance and discover a handpicked selection of emerald birthstone jewellery that captures the magic of May.