What is May's Birthstone and Birth Flower

May is coming! As spring paints the world in bright colors, May becomes a time for joy and fresh beginnings, especially for those celebrating a May birthday.

May introduces two special symbols among the blooming flowers and lush greenery: the emerald birthstone, a beautiful gemstone loved for its elegance, and the Lily of the Valley, a fragrant flower full of charm.

Keep reading to learn the rich symbolism and meaning behind what is May's birthstone and birth flower. 

Emerald - May’s Birthstone

The beautiful emerald gemstones, often crafted into exquisite emerald pendants and other fine jewelry, have a rich history and symbolism that makes them a cherished choice for both personal adornment and meaningful gifts.

History and Origin of Emerald

Emerald history has fascinated people for centuries with their stunning green stone color and beauty. 

Ancient civilizations like the Incas, Aztecs, and Egyptians valued emeralds highly. They believed these gems had special powers and were spiritually important. Ancient Greek philosophers like Aristotle and Pliny the Elder wrote about emeralds, attributing them to various mystical properties.

In ancient times, emeralds had links to aspects such as fertility, new beginnings, and staying young forever. Cleopatra, the famous queen of Egypt, loved emeralds and wore them to feel even more beautiful and powerful.

Also, the Muzo and Chivor mines in present-day Colombia, known for their rich emerald deposits, have been major sources of these precious gems for centuries. Additionally, Brazil is another significant contributor to the global emerald supply.

Meaning of Emerald

The emerald birthstone is known for its captivating, rich green hue, which reigns as the birthstone for the month of May. It holds deep meanings of love, starting anew, and growing stronger. That's why it's a great choice for remembering important moments or marking fresh starts. Also, emeralds are often associated with the zodiac sign Taurus, which falls in May.

Its lush bluish-green color stands for life, balance, and prosperity, echoing the energy of spring. Emeralds owe their green color to trace amounts of chromium within the mineral's structure. 

People say wearing emerald jewelry can help the wearer feel more emotionally balanced, think clearly, and heal inside. Wearing emeralds might even bring good luck and make you feel more spiritually fulfilled, making them perfect for commemorating special anniversaries. 

Additionally, the value of an emerald is often determined by its color, clarity, emerald cut, and carat weight. Jewelers particularly prize them as center stones in engagement rings, with the emerald ring symbolizing love, renewal, and the promise of a bright future.

People often consider the Mohs hardness scale when evaluating the durability of gemstones like emeralds. Emeralds typically rank between 7.5 and 8 on the Mohs scale.

Lily of the Valley - May’s Birth Flower

Accompanying the radiant emerald, the birth flower for May is the delicate and fragrant Lily of the Valley. This exquisite flower holds a special place in floral folklore and symbolizes purity, humility, and happiness. 

Symbolism of Lily of the Valley

The Lily of the Valley has a rich history steeped in myth and legend. In Christian tradition, it is often associated with the Virgin Mary and symbolizes purity and the return of happiness. 

According to medieval folklore, the Lily of the Valley is believed to have sprung from the tears of the Virgin Mary, earning it the moniker "Our Lady's Tears."

In Victorian flower language, the Lily of the Valley signifies sweetness, gratitude, and the promise of a brighter future. It is the inclusions in bridal bouquets and symbolic arrangements to convey messages of love, devotion, and good fortune. 

The delicate beauty and intoxicating scent of Lily of the Valley make it a timeless symbol of affection and appreciation.

May's Treasured Gems and Blooms

As we celebrate the joys of May, the emerald and Lily of the Valley serve as poignant reminders of nature's beauty and the precious moments that enrich our lives. Embrace the enchanting allure of May's birthstone and birth flower, and let their timeless elegance adorn your life with joy and meaning. 

Emerald diamond rings, in particular, hold a special place as symbols of love, starting anew and growing stronger.