Emerald Meaning: Symbolism, History, Birthstone and Care

Looking up emerald meaning? You're in the right place. This rich green gem has been admired for centuries for its glow and heart-centred symbolism. Below you'll find what it is, what it represents, its history, why it's the May birthstone, and how to wear and care for emerald jewellery every day. 💚

Often called the stone of love and renewal, emerald symbolises compassion, abundance and emotional balance. Its lush green colour has long been linked with spring, new growth and the heart.

Love and Loyalty

This gem has a long association with faithful love, which is why it's a favourite for anniversaries, promise rings and gifts for someone special.

Growth and Renewal

Green is the colour of new leaves, so it's often chosen to mark fresh starts, new chapters and personal growth.

Emotional Balance

In crystal traditions, it is believed to encourage calm, patience and clear, kind communication.

• Heart-led compassion and forgiveness
• Abundance and gratitude
• Harmony in relationships
• A steady, quiet kind of strength

This gem suits anyone drawn to meaningful, nature-inspired jewellery, especially during times of growth or change.

Perfect For

• May birthdays and May-born babies
• The 55th wedding anniversary, traditionally celebrated with emerald
• Anyone starting a new chapter, job or relationship
• Lovers of organic, earthy colour and timeless design

It's also a thoughtful choice for meaningful gifting, carrying symbolism that goes beyond style alone.

Emerald is the traditional May birthstone, symbolising renewal, love and growth. It's a lovely match for May, which brings spring to the Northern Hemisphere and crisp late autumn days here in Australia.

The Zodiac Connection

• Taurus (20 April to 20 May): Venus-ruled and drawn to beauty and lasting love
• Gemini (21 May to 20 June): curious and expressive, balanced by its calm energy
• Cancer (21 June to 22 July): nurturing and heart-led, just like this gem

Read more in our emerald May birthstone guide or explore the meaning behind every birthstone.

This gem's story stretches back thousands of years, and its deep green has captivated royalty, explorers and artists alike.

Ancient Egypt

Some of the earliest known mines for green beryl were in Egypt, and the stone is closely linked with Cleopatra, who was famously fond of it.

Ancient Rome

The Roman writer Pliny the Elder wrote that nothing is greener than emerald, and that looking at it was restful for tired eyes.

South America

Colombia has produced some of the world's most prized green stones for centuries, and many of the finest still come from there today.

Through every era, it has remained a symbol of rebirth and a treasured heirloom passed down through families.

Emerald is a hard stone, around 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale, but most stones contain natural inclusions and are often oil-treated, so a little gentle care goes a long way.

Cleaning

• Wipe with a soft, lint-free cloth after wearing
• Clean with lukewarm water, a drop of mild soap and a soft brush
• Avoid ultrasonic and steam cleaners, which can damage oiled stones

Wearing and Storing

• Remove before swimming, cleaning, gardening or the gym
• Put it on after perfume, lotion and hairspray
• Store it separately in a soft pouch to prevent scratches

Our collection is thoughtfully crafted to honour each stone's natural depth and character. From rings and necklaces to earrings for everyday wear, every piece is designed to feel both meaningful and effortless: easy to layer and easy to love.

• Natural stones set in 925 sterling silver
• Gold and rose gold plated options
• Personalised initial and zodiac birthstone necklaces

Explore our full emerald jewellery collection or our May birthstone jewellery.