Emerald Birthstone: Jewellery for May Birthdays

Emerald: Enchanting May Birthstone Jewellery 

What do George Clooney, Kylie Minogue and David Beckham all have in common?

They all celebrate their birthdays in May. Which means they’re extra fortunate, because these lucky May babies share another happy coincidence, they get to have the exquisite emerald as their birthstone. In this blog post we’ll share some facts about how the practice of wearing birthstone jewellery started and why May birthstone jewellery makes the best gift for these Autumnal birthdays.

How birthstone jewellery originated

Did you know that jewellery made with birthstones has been worn since ancient times? As far back as 1200BC, Indian astrologers were known to suggest particular gemstones that would offer benefit to each individual. These stones were said to offer protection and healing, bring good luck and even strengthen people’s natural attributes.

In the west, it’s believed that the wearing of birthstones evolved from a Bible story, with gemstones representing the 12 tribes of Israel. Over time this became linked to the 12 months of the year and the signs of the zodiac.

Birthstones for May zodiac signs

People born between May 1^st and 21^st fall under the Taurus sign, represented by the bull. As Taurus is ruled by the Venus, the planet of beauty, it’s associated with good taste. It’s no surprise then that Taureans have a reputation for being strong-willed individuals who adore indulgence and luxury.

May babies born after the 21^st are Geminis, symbolised by twins. This sign is known for its outgoing personality, great conversation and being somewhat impulsive. Fun, right?

So, it’s perfectly appropriate that the birthstone for May birthdays is the life-affirming emerald. The emerald is even more rare than the diamond and is associated with the heart chakra which means it provides wisdom, inspiration and abundant love.

Where are emeralds found?

Although emerald gemstones are very rare, they’re still found in some special spots all over the world. They’re usually layered in rocks and are mined from deep underground in Colombia, Brazil, Zambia and right here in Australia. Because emeralds aren’t easy to get to, jewellers have created treatments to improve clarity of some of the more commonly found emeralds. And we can even create emeralds in a laboratory to make beautiful May birthstone jewellery.

Green with envy over May birthstone jewellery?

We don’t blame you! The precious emerald is one of those stunning gemstones that looks good on everyone. Have dark skin and brown eyes? Choose an emerald set in yellow gold like this divine emerald cut emerald and diamond ring, or these lab-created emerald hook earrings. Got olive skin and green eyes? If you don’t buy this spectacular emerald and diamond pendant, then you’re really missing out.  Rocking red hair and freckles? Then take a moment to drool over this ultra-glam white gold diamond and emerald bridal ring set, or this elegant white gold diamond and emerald pendant.

Emerald jewellery is versatile and suits literally everybody. So, the only choice you need to make is what type of emerald jewellery you, or the person you’re buying for, would prefer.

What’s the most popular type of May birthstone jewellery?

Without a doubt, the most popular May birthstone jewellery gifts are rings. Usually with the gorgeous emerald worn as the dazzling centrepiece. It’s also a very popular choice for brides-to-be to wear as an engagement ring. Victoria Beckham received her cushion-cut emerald engagement ring in 2007. For something similar, check out this simply beautiful white gold cushion cut natural emeral­d with diamond halo ring.  

Or be like Halle Berry and indulge in this brilliant emerald ring with a halo of 36 round brilliant cut diamonds as well as diamond set shoulders crafted in a shimmering 9ct yellow gold (available to order). View Hoskings entire collection of emerald rings here.

May birthstone emerald pendants

If you’re searching for a birthday gift for a May birthday, then we insist that you spend a few moments salivating over Hoskings collection of emerald pendant necklaces, (just click right here). You won’t regret it! 

Take this magnificent deep green created emerald pendant with a diamond halo surround – have you ever seen anything more beautiful? If you’d like a little extra bling, then we know you’ll adore this exceptional yellow gold pendant with an emerald surrounded by a halo of 32 diamonds.  Or admire the delicately crafted pear-shaped emerald pendant with diamonds set at the bottom.

Emerald earrings make a perfect May birthday gift

One of the most popular items in each Hoskings store are these beautiful pear-shaped stud earrings with a created emerald and diamonds to add a little extra sparkle. They scream Gemini energy! Then these emerald and diamond hook earrings come a very close second.

If you’re just dipping your toes into this luscious world of emeralds and want to start with some super budget-friendly earrings, then these sterling silver studs with an emerald green coloured cubic zirconia in a bezel setting are just the trick.

When to wear emerald jewellery

We’ve established that lucky Taureans and Geminis are almost obliged to celebrate themselves with this life-enriching emerald goodness. However, as much as they might disagree, emerald jewellery is not exclusive to people born in May.

Emerald jewellery is also used to celebrate 20^th and 35^th wedding anniversaries which seems like a suitable reward for so many years of happy marriage. But honestly, it’s our opinion that emerald jewellery is for absolutely everyone, anywhere and anytime. So, if you’ve seen something that you love while browsing our emerald jewellery collection, don’t hold back. We know it’s going to look fabulous on you!

Alternative May birthstone jewellery

It would be remiss of us if we didn’t also mention that there’s an alternative gemstone for May birthdays. Because even though the emerald is exceptional, it’s always nice to have options. This other beautiful May birthstone is agate. 

The agate is a durable gemstone that makes it great for wearing in everyday jewellery. It comes in a wide range of colours, including black, white, red, orange, yellow, green, blue, purple, and pink. And it often has uniquely beautiful, banded patterns.

This beautiful semi-precious gemstone has a long history of being worn as jewellery as a good luck and healing charm. It’s credited with being able to balance the mind, body, and spirit and transform negative energy, to provide the wearer with a healthy and prosperous life.

And because Hoskings wants to make sure you find exactly what you’re looking for when you’re shopping for May birthstone jewellery, we have a fantastic collection of agate jewellery (right here) too.

We hope we’ve inspired you with lots of ideas for May birthstone jewellery. If you’d like to see any of the pieces in person, then pop in store to any of our Hoskings stores and let our helpful customer service team help you.

If you’d like to speak to a Hoskings customer service representative, just call the numbers below:

VIC/ NSW/ QLD & TAS: 1800 819 796

NT/WA or SA: 08) 8981 8895

Written by: Niamh Hislop

Cover image:
Chantelle Kusi-A Unsplash