Few gemstones captivate like emeralds—lush, vivid, and steeped in legend. As one of the world’s most coveted green gemstones, the emerald is a meaningful gift and a striking addition to any jewelry collection. Those born in May are especially fortunate to call this vibrant gem their birthstone . With tones ranging from yellow-green to deep, velvety forest green, emeralds enchant with their natural beauty and symbolic ties to renewal, love, and prosperity.
Symbolism and Meaning of Emeralds
Throughout history, emeralds have been treasured not only for their beauty but also for their profound spiritual significance. Ancient cultures believed these gemstones held prophetic powers, could reveal truths, and even detect lies. Often worn as talismans , emeralds protected against evil, attracted prosperity, and brought good fortune.
Today, they continue to symbolize loyalty, renewal, and wisdom. They are especially cherished for promoting harmony in relationships and unity within the home, making them meaningful gifts for loved ones. In addition to their birthstone status, emeralds are traditionally given to commemorate the 20th and 35th wedding anniversaries, marking lasting love and deep connection.
Emerald's Illustrious History
For over 2,500 years, emeralds have been treasured as symbols of wealth, status, and mystique. They were first mined in Egypt around 500 B.C., although the name comes from the Greek word smaragdus, meaning “green stone.”
By the 1500s, Colombia had become a significant source of emeralds—and still leads the world in production today. Famous Colombian mines include Muzo, Chivor, and Coscuez. Other sources include Brazil, Zambia, South Africa, Zimbabwe, Nigeria, and Madagascar.
Why Are Emeralds Green?
Emeralds owe their lush green hue to trace amounts of chromium and vanadium. In contrast, slight amounts of iron can introduce tinges of yellow or blue.
Only gemstones with a relatively dark tone qualify as emeralds, and the rarest examples exhibit a bluish-green coloration. However, both bluish-green and pure green emeralds are highly prized—whether as a birthstone or simply for their striking appearance. The most desireable emeralds are vividly saturated, highly transparent, and fall in the medium to medium-dark tone range.
Emerald Inclusions: A Mark of Authenticity
Emeralds are classified as Class III or “included” gemstones, meaning inclusions are not only expected but nearly always present. Even AAA+ emeralds, the highest possible grade, can feature inclusions in 10- 20% of their body.
These imperfections happen when crystals, gas bubbles, or liquids, or other minerals occur and can be observed inside the gem. Fractures caused by radioactive material may also result in inclusions. Gemologists often refer to these internal patterns as “jardins,” the French word for gardens. Naturally, emeralds with fewer inclusions are more valuable and rarer.
Heavily included stones may appear cloudier, diminishing both brilliance and visible color. However, inclusions are a natural part of what makes emeralds unique and do not detract from their beauty or desirability. Many consider these “flaws” to be a signature of the stone’s authenticity and character.
Are Emeralds Considered Soft Gemstones?
While not especially prone to chipping, emeralds are more susceptible to scratching and wear than harder gems like diamonds. On the Mohs hardness scale, emeralds rate between 7.5 and 8, placing them in the middle-to-high range for durability and thus acceptable for any jewelry or application.
The May Birthstone and the Emerald Cut
Wondering if there’s a connection between emeralds and the “emerald cut?” There is! Gem artisans developed the “emerald cut” “emerald cut” in the 1500s specifically to accommodate the unique properties of emeralds.
Since these gemstones often grow in elongated crystal forms, they can be prone to breakage when cut into sharp points. The emerald cut—with its softened corners and step facets—was designed to reduce stress on the gem while highlighting its natural beauty.
Modern-Day Relevance: Emeralds in Pop Culture and Fashion
Emeralds have maintained their popularity not just for their rich history and symbolism but also for their continued presence in the world of fashion and pop culture. Celebrities like Beyoncé, Angelina Jolie, and Meghan Markle have been spotted wearing stunning emerald jewelry, further solidifying the gemstone’s timeless appeal. Beyoncé’s iconic green emerald earrings at President Obama’s 2013 inauguration and Angelina Jolie’s emerald earrings from the 2009 Academy Awards are examples of how emeralds are used to make bold, glamorous statements.
Emeralds have also played a significant role in iconic movie scenes, such as the famous emerald necklace in The Secret Garden or the stunning jewels worn by characters in The Great Gatsby. Their vibrant color and regal aura make them a favorite choice for red-carpet events, where they symbolize wealth, beauty, and sophistication.
Whether in the hands of royalty, worn by A-list celebrities, or admired by jewel enthusiasts worldwide, emeralds remain a symbol of elegance, strength, and allure in modern-day culture.
Why Wear Emerald Jewelry?
Many enthusiasts appreciate the visible inclusions in emeralds, seeing them as signs of authenticity and character. Others value emeralds for their spiritual significance, symbolic power, or mythological roots.
At Brinker’s Jewelers, emeralds are timeless treasures to be worn and admired. Browse our online collection of May birthstone jewelry or visit us in-store. Our knowledgeable team is here to help you find the perfect gift or design a custom piece that captures the magic of this incredible gemstone.
Brinker's Jewelers Care Tip:
For emerald jewelry—especially pieces you wear often—we recommend having them professionally cleaned and inspected every 6 to 8 months to ensure their longevity and sparkle. If you’re cleaning your emeralds at home, avoid harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners, as these can damage the stone. Instead, gently clean them using warm water, mild soap, and a soft brush—like a toothbrush—to preserve their natural beauty.
For added convenience, our Brinker’s Jewelers Cleaning Care KIT is safe for use on emerald jewelry and provides everything you need to maintain your gemstones between professional cleanings.
