Emerald: May's Birthstone
If you were lucky enough to be born in May, you scored one of the most glamorous birthstones going. Emeralds aren’t just fancy, they’re the jewellery equivalent of turning up to brunch in a velvet dress while everyone else is still in their pyjamas.
Known for their rich, vibrant green hue, emeralds have been adored for centuries by royalty, adventurers, and romantics alike. They’re not just a birthstone, they’re a total showstopper for your outfit, instantly transforming you into the star of your own fairy tale.
The Power of the Emerald Birthstone
Emeralds aren’t just beautiful, they’re little green powerhouses packed with power. For centuries, people have relied on them for a boost of clarity and confidence. They’re said to sharpen your thoughts and calm the chaos, helping you make decisions with the wisdom of someone who definitely didn’t just change outfits three times before leaving the house.
But the real magic is in the heart. Emeralds are thought to soothe emotions, spark compassion, and open you up to deeper connections with yourself, with others, maybe even with your houseplants. Wearing emerald jewellery isn’t just about looking like you’ve got your life together (although it helps). It’s about embracing a little calm, a little love, and a lot of good vibes.
Why Choose an Emerald Necklace?
Sure, you could buy a sensible cardigan or another reusable coffee cup... but deep down, you know an emerald necklace would make your heart sing louder than a 00s karaoke banger. Emeralds aren’t just beautiful, they’re bold, timeless, and elevate any outfit to immaculate status.
An emerald necklace is more than just jewellery, it’s an heirloom in the making. The kind of piece that people will definitely try to steal from you at family gatherings. It’s also versatile enough to be worn with anything: casual jeans, your fanciest dress, or even your go-to “I just threw this on” look. Emeralds have that magic touch that pulls everything —including your life.
Interesting Facts About the Emerald Birthstone
Emeralds have been causing drama and stealing hearts for thousands of years. With centuries of scandal, symbolism, and a few surprising quirks, they’re the perfect conversation starter. Here are some fascinating facts that’ll make you fall for them even harder.
Historical Significance
- Cleopatra was obsessed: The Egyptian queen basically hoarded emeralds like they were limited edition.
- Ancient Egyptians loved them: They believed emeralds symbolised fertility, rebirth, and eternal youth.
- Romans were fans too: They associated emeralds with Venus, the goddess of love and beauty. Big romantic energy.
Mythology and Symbolism
- Fortune telling powers: Legend says emeralds could grant you the ability to see the future. (Convenient for avoiding bad dates and terrible haircuts.)
- Symbols of growth and renewal: Their lush green colour is linked to spring, fresh starts, and personal glow-ups.
- Ultimate love stone: Ancient cultures believed emeralds could strengthen relationships and open the heart—perfect if you’re looking for your soulmate.
Healing and Spiritual Properties
- Emotional rescue: Emeralds are said to soothe the soul and calm anxious thoughts, like a gemstone therapist.
- Heart chakra magic: They’re believed to open up your heart for love, compassion, and all those feelings you pretend you don’t have.
- Patience and balance: Wearing emeralds is meant to help you stay calm, focused, and a little less likely to rage at slow walkers.
Caring for Your Emerald Jewellery
Emeralds may be tough (they’re a 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale), but they’re also known for having a few internal quirks. Think of them as the emotionally complex friend of the gemstone world. Those natural inclusions, called "jardin" (French for garden, because even their flaws sound fancy), mean emeralds need a little extra care and attention.
Here’s how to keep yours looking beautiful:
- No ultrasonic cleaners: Save the aggressive spa treatments for your pores.
- Gentle cleaning only: Warm water, mild soap, soft cloth. Save the scrubbing fora burnt pans.
- Avoid harsh chemicals: Perfume, hairspray, and cleaning products are not emerald-friendly.
- Store separately: Emeralds can scratch or be scratched by other jewellery. Give them their own little padded box.
Ethical and Sustainable Sourcing
Emeralds are stunning but like many gemstones, their journey can sometimes be murky. (And not in a pretty "fog over a lake" kind of way.) That’s why it’s important to choose emeralds that have been ethically and sustainably sourced. Ethical emeralds mean better conditions for miners, safer practices for communities, and less environmental destruction.
When you’re shopping, look for jewellers who are transparent about their sourcing, use recycled metals, and work with responsible suppliers (hello, that's us!). Because at the end of the day, wearing something beautiful shouldn’t come at the cost of someone else's wellbeing—or the planet’s.
