As a Chicago area jeweler based in Lake Forest, and owner of Vintage Magnality, I'm thrilled to talk about May's birthstone, the gorgeous emerald which is one of my favorite gemstones. Emeralds are stunning gemstones that have captured the hearts of people worldwide for centuries. Traditionally associated with rebirth, growth, and love, emeralds are the perfect gemstone to celebrate birthdays or anniversaries in the month of May.  Our Perfect Emerald & Natural Diamond Charm Pendant is a great gifting option for someone special who has a May birthday or just loves emeralds, shop here. It's available in either natural or lab-grown emerald styles.

Emeralds have a rich history and cultural significance that dates back to ancient times. The ancient Egyptians believed that emeralds represented fertility and rebirth, while the Greeks thought that the gemstone represented love and wisdom. The Incas and Aztecs also valued emeralds, considering them to be a symbol of wealth and power.  Our Showstopper Bezel-Set Solitaire Natural Emerald Chain Link Solid 14K Gold Ring is a fashion forward way to wear this beautiful gemstone, shop here. 

Part of what makes emeralds so unique and sought after is their stunning green color. They range from a light, pale green to a deep, almost black forest green, with the most valuable stones having a vivid and intense green hue. This green color is caused by the presence of chromium and vanadium in the crystal structure of the stone.  Our Follow Your Heart Gemstone Necklace showcases a beautiful heart shaped lab-grown emerald and is also available in multiple gemstone options, shop here. 

One of the most famous emeralds of all time is the Colombian Muzo emerald, which is over 2,200 carats and is housed in the Museum of Natural History in New York City. This beautiful gemstone has an incredible green color and clarity, and its size makes it an exceptional and rare emerald specimen.  Maybe not the Colombian Muzo emerald but we have an amazing emerald ring in our vintage collection, The Duchess Vintage Emerald and Diamond 18K Yellow Gold Statement Ring, click here to see a video of this stunning ring!

Personally, I love emeralds so much I commissioned an original oil painting of an emerald by Angie Crabtree, which was her first large scale emerald painting.  Named after my first daughter, "Major" hangs in Vintage Magnality's salon where I host private appointments in Lake Forest.  Per Angie Crabtree's website, "AC's paintings offer a rigorous study of light and optics, approaching the subject matter as portraiture of modern day relics for a world that loves beautiful trophies." Check out Angie Crabtree's instagram to see some of her beautiful work!

Emeralds are also believed to have many healing properties. They are thought to promote calmness, balance, and emotional health. Some even say that emeralds can help with physical ailments like eye strain, back pain, and headaches. Many people also wear emeralds as a symbol of hope, joy, and positivity.

Our Wear Everyday™ pieces range from simple stud earrings to intricate necklaces and bracelets, emeralds are a versatile gemstone that can be styled in many ways. They are a perfect addition to any jewelry collection and make a beautiful gift for someone you love, especially those born in May.  Emeralds are a unique and valuable gemstone that has captured the hearts and minds of people for centuries. May's birthstone represents rebirth, growth, and love, making it perfect for this time of year. Whether you wear them for their beauty, healing properties, or symbolism, emeralds are a truly special gemstone that should be cherished and celebrated.