The notion of birthstones has been around for centuries but the modern day concept first came into fruition when Tiffany & Co. released a pamphlet on differing birthstones and their meanings. In the pamphlet, there were poems to explain the symbolic meaning behind each stone and month. The birthstone for May is emerald and the poem was, “Who first beholds the light of day, In spring’s sweet flowery month of May, And wears an emerald all her life, Shall be a loved and happy wife.”

 

 

The correlation between the intense green hues of emeralds with the nature element in spring, gives emeralds a symbolism to growth and rebirth as in nature. About Birthstones states, “The Egyptians were known to engrave Emeralds with the symbol for foliage to represent eternal youth, and to bury these jewels with their dead. The ancient Romans associated this gemstone with fertility and rebirth, and dedicated it to Venus, the goddess of love and beauty.”

 

It is said that Cleopatra favored emeralds and the symbolism for emeralds holding love and commitment still hold true today. About Birthstones states, “The Ancient Egyptians mined Emeralds in the eastern desert region 2,000 years before Cleopatra’s birth, braving extreme heat, scorpions and snakes to search for the beautiful crystals. During Cleopatra’s reign, she claimed the Emerald mines as her own, as this was her favorite gem. She often wore lavish Emerald jewelry, and it is said that she bestowed visiting dignitaries with large Emeralds carved with her likeness when they departed Egypt.”

Unlike other stones, like diamonds that are considered less valuable for containing flaws; emeralds embrace flaws to become part of the character of the stone. Galleries states,”Even artificial emeralds often contain flaws, however, as the process of growing artificial emeralds mimics the way nature does it (slow crystal growth from a molten mix).”

 

This is another reason why the stone can help to symbolize love and commitment. Just as there is no such thing as a perfect love or relationship, flaws can be what help to make a relationship stronger. About Birthstones states, “Some people believe that wearing an Emerald brings wisdom, growth, and patience. And as any couple in a long-term relationship would agree, all of these qualities are essential for a successful and lasting love. This may explain why a gift of Emerald for an anniversary—or anytime—is considered symbolic of love and fidelity.”