May is a month of joy and optimism, with nature coming to life and the promise of summer on the horizon. And for those born in May, there is an extra reason to celebrate: the gorgeous emerald birthstone.
This precious gem has long been associated with hope and renewal, making it the perfect choice for a month that represents new beginnings.
The Allure of Emeralds: History and Legends
Emeralds are one of the most coveted gemstones in the world, adored for their exquisite beauty and rich green hue. They have a long and fascinating history, dating back to ancient times when they were revered by cultures from around the world.
The Greeks believed that emeralds were a symbol of fertility and rebirth, while the Egyptians saw them as a representation of eternal life. The Romans prized emeralds for their calming effect and associated them with Venus, the goddess of love.
Emeralds have also been associated with mystical powers, including the ability to predict the future and protect against evil. Some even believed that emeralds could cure snakebites and ward off sickness. These beliefs have contributed to the emerald’s popularity and continued appeal throughout history.
The Significance of Emeralds Today
Today, emeralds continue to captivate and enchant people from all walks of life.
They are considered one of the “Big Three” gemstones, along with rubies and sapphires, and are highly sought after for their unique beauty and rarity. Emeralds are twenty times rarer than colourless diamonds, making them a prized possession for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Celebrities are also drawn to the allure of emeralds, with famous faces like Elizabeth Taylor, Angelina Jolie, and Jessica Chastain all sporting stunning emerald jewellery on the red carpet. And with sustainability and ethical mining becoming increasingly important to consumers, the responsible sourcing of emeralds has become a top priority for the industry.
Gemfields, the majority owner of the Kagem emerald mine in Zambia, is leading the way in sustainable and ethical emerald mining, partnering with fine jewellers to create exquisite pieces that are both stunning and responsibly sourced.
Choosing the Perfect Emerald Gift
Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or other special occasion, emeralds make a wonderful gift that will be treasured for years to come. When choosing an emerald, it’s important to look for evenness of colour and saturation and to view the gemstone in natural light for the most accurate appraisal. Clarity is also key, but inclusions can add character and personality to the stone.
For those looking to make a statement, there are plenty of bold and dramatic emerald designs to choose from, such as Gemfields Zambian emerald ring with ‘wow’ factor by Fehmida Lakhany x Gemfields.
For a more delicate and feminine look, the Fabergé x Gemfields Cosmic Curve Yellow Gold and Emerald Eternity ring from the Colours of Love collection is a timeless choice.
And for those who want to support a good cause while adding to their jewellery collection, the Sandy Leong x Gemfields collection donates 10% of proceeds to the Gemfields Foundation, the charitable arm of Gemfields.
In conclusion, emeralds are a stunning and meaningful birthstone that represent the beauty and hope of May. Whether you’re looking for a statement piece or a delicate everyday accessory, emeralds are sure to delight and enchant.
And with ethical and sustainable sourcing becoming increasingly important to consumers, Gemfields is leading the way in creating beautiful emerald jewellery that can be worn with pride and confidence.