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Birthstones
May birthstone: Emerald
The birthstone for May is emerald. The full list is emerald, with chrysoprase as an alternative. Emerald is green beryl. Green aventurine and jade are popular affordable green alternatives for a May birthday.
May birthstones at a glance
- Emerald
- Green aventurine: traditionally linked with luck and opportunity, the 'gambler's stone'
- Jade: traditionally linked with harmony, longevity and good fortune in Chinese tradition
Where birthstone lists come from
The idea of a stone for each month goes back to the twelve stones on the breastplate of the Jewish high priest, described in the Book of Exodus. The modern list was set by the American National Association of Jewelers in 1912, and Britain's National Association of Goldsmiths published its own list in 1937. That is why some months have more than one stone.
May star signs
May birthdays fall under Taurus (20 April – 20 May) and Gemini (21 May – 20 June), so a sign stone is another gift option.
Gift ideas at every price
- Under £10: a tumbled jade or emerald in a pouch with a card.
- £10–£30: a pendant, bracelet or point in the birthstone colour.
- £30 and over: a sphere, a larger point or a set with a candle and incense. Orders over £40 travel free.
Care
Hard stones (7 and above on the Mohs scale) can be washed in warm soapy water. Softer and porous stones need a dry cloth only. Each stone page gives specific care.
May birthstone gifts in stock
Questions answered
What is the May birthstone?
Emerald, with chrysoprase as an alternative.
What colour is the May birthstone?
Emerald is green beryl.
Is there a cheaper alternative to emerald?
Yes: green aventurine and jade give a similar look or tradition at a lower price.
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