May's Birthstone: Emerald

The Emerald is a jewel of long history, legend and fascination. Whilst there are other green gems such as Jade, Tourmaline and Peridot, it is always the Emerald that is associated with landscapes and nature because of its vivid colour - Ireland is known as the Emerald Isle and Seattle is referred to as the Emerald City. Even Thailand's most sacred religious icon is known as the 'Emerald Buddha'. The name is derived from Ancient Greece and the first known Emerald mines were in Egypt, with Cleopatra being particularly fond of the gem, using them to adorn many of her royal outfits.

The stone is part of the 'Beryl' family of gemstones and legend says that it holds a number of mystical properties, including being able to see into the future if the stone is placed under the tongue. Not to mention its use to reveal the truth and ward off evil spirits.

The colour of the Emerald is said to reflect new Spring growth, making it the perfect birthstone for the month of May, and of course here at Alfies we have some perfect Emerald pieces to offer.

An Austrian/Hungarian emerald and pearl silver bracelet, 1860s/70s. Offered by Zeeba Jewels.

Left to Right: A two carat diamond and three carat emerald ring, 1980s; A French Art Deco emerald and diamond ring, 1930s. Offered by Kieron Reilly

A Wedgwood shell plate 1920s/30s. Offered by W & L Antiques

A diamond and emerald bow brooch, 1940s. Offered by Zeeba Jewels

Art Deco diamond and emerald rings, 1930s. Offered by Kieron Reilly

An American jug with diamond detailing, 1940s. Offered by Renato

An emerald and diamond 18ct necklace, 1980s, Offered by Zeeba Jewels

Emerald - The Birthstone for May

Lucky readers, who celebrate their birthday this month, can make legitimate requests to loved ones for a beautiful emerald gift from Alfies - emerald is the birthstone for May.

The word emerald is derived from the Greek smaragdos via Old French esmeralde. Its meaning is simply green gemstone. It is such a unique jewel that a special cut was developed just for it: the emerald cut. So if jewellery is a present for you, here are some great emerald ideas:

A 1940's emerald & diamond ring

Pars Jewellery

A mid 19th Century 15ct gold filigree brooch set with citrine and emerald. Circa 1860.
Marie Antiques

A pair of stunning 1940's rose diamond, emerald and ruby chandelier earrings
Pari's Jewellery

There are some world famous emeralds out there - The New York Museum of Natural History displays a cup made of pure emerald, while the emerald crystal named Patricia is one of the largest (it weighs a hefty 632 carats!) But they may be a little over budget, so as an alternative you could always suggest that an emerald coloured present from Alfies would suffice (and they're not just presents for ladies!):

1920's/30's continental wrought iron magazine holder
Bent Ply

Green glass round Art Deco mirror
Louise Verber Antiques

A 1930's green pressed glass fruit bowl with 3 Art Deco ladies holding up the bowl
Ian Broughton

An industrial light with green shade
Stephen Lazarus

In ancient Rome green represented Venus, the Goddess of Love. We're sure that these emerald gift ideas from Alfies will keep that symbology going a little longer - what is not to love?!