The year in birthstones
May officially marks the end of winter and, historically, has always represented a time of transformation. The traditions of May Day are largely celebrated on 1st May, with people participating in a range of activities from morris dancing to folk music and games. The birthstone for May is emerald, the prefect embodiment of spring!
This is a stone that evokes rebirth and renewal. Known for its unmistakable rich green hue, this timeless gemstone is one of the most distinctive available. The green colouring is attributed to trace elements of chromium and vanadium. Emeralds are evaluated by their colour more than their clarity. The purer and more vivid deep green the colour, the higher the value.
Emeralds in jewellery
Emerald is a 7.5-8 on the Mohs hardness scale, meaning they can be vulnerable to scratches, and require more care than sapphires and rubies. The internal structure of emeralds have many inclusions that occur during the natural growth process, which can be weak points in the stone, so extra care is required when setting them.
Important emerald sources include Brazil, Colombia, Madagascar, Russia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
The Jardin of emerald
The May birthstone possesses a unique characteristic, referred to as the ‘Jardin’ or garden. This is the tiny internal network of inclusions that have naturally formed within an emerald, and when combined with the gems distinctive colour, evoke images of lush gardens and soothing green landscapes.
History of emeralds
Emeralds have been used in jewellery for centuries, dating back to the ancient Egyptians. Cleopatra was known to have a love for the gemstone and adorned not only herself, but also her palace with emeralds. Additionally, she reportedly gifted emeralds as diplomatic gifts to foreign dignitaries.
The May birthstone was considered a revealer of truth, supposedly capable of cutting through illusions and determining the sincerity of a lover’s oath. They were also believed to enable clear and eloquent speech. The Greeks and Romans attributed healing properties to the stone. Pliny the Elder, a Roman author, naval and army commander of the Roman Empire, said this about emeralds: ‘If the sight has been wearied or dimmed by intensively looking on any other subject, it is refreshed and restored by gazing at this stone.’
Emerald eyes
This carved silver sugar skull pendant set with cabochon emeralds in its eye sockets is our Baroque take on the traditional Mexican sugar skull. Originating as part of the day of the dead festival, they symbolise departed loved ones and celebrating the cycle of life and death.
Rough emerald
We love working with stones in their raw uncut forms. This ring features a 3.35ct rough emerald set in an 18ct yellow gold. It’s the perfect nod to traditional jewellery while still having a unique fun twist. Click here to enquire about rough emeralds.
Contemporary design
Because of emeralds rich and well established history, we enjoy featuring the gemstone in more modern designs. This east west, rubover set, oval emerald ring features a heavier band which compliments the setting style. The simplicity of the design keeps the main focal point of the ring this gorgeous 1.19ct emerald.
This distinctive and soothing stone is the perfect choice if you love the vibrant green hues of emerald and its vast history! When worn with care, its beautiful in engagement rings, but is also the gemstone for the 20th and 35th wedding anniversaries so a great gift for those special milestones. Click here to chat to us about all things emerald!
Love, Team Baroque
