May Birthstone
Birthstone
Emerald
Emerald's name derives from Greek 'smaragdos' meaning 'green stone.' A variety of beryl colored green by chromium and vanadium. Though Mohs hardness is 7.5-8, it's brittle due to many inclusions. Famous as Cleopatra's most beloved gemstone, she owned 'Cleopatra's Mines' named after herself. In ancient times symbolized life, rebirth, and abundance. Colombian emeralds are still considered finest quality.
Features
- Vibrant green from chromium and vanadium
- Mohs hardness 7.5-8 but brittle due to inclusions
- Characteristic inclusions called 'jardin' (garden)
- Commonly treated with oil or resin impregnation
Personality
- Stone enhancing wisdom and insight, granting power to see truth
- Nurtures gentle, tolerant nature
- Loving and values harmony with others
Symbolic Meaning
- Symbol of happiness, love, and hope
- Embodiment of life, rebirth, and abundance
- Source of wisdom and intuition
- Proof of loyalty and sincerity
Reason for Selection
- Selected as perfect gem expressing May's beautiful fresh greenery
- Green symbolizing spring's vitality and growth suits May
- History of being treasured as spring's gemstone since ancient times
Protection & Effects
- Heals eye fatigue and protects vision
- Protects love relationships and deepens bonds
- Brings mental stability and reduces stress
- Attracts wealth and prosperity
Trials & Growth
- Nurtures loyalty to overcome trials with loved ones
- Grants strength to maintain hope even in difficult situations
- Provides courage for new beginnings
Gallery
Jade
Jade's name comes from kingfisher feather colors, with 'hi' for red and 'sui' for green. Mineralogically includes jadeite (hard jade) and nephrite (soft jade), with jadeite more valuable. Mohs hardness 6.5-7. Used in Japan since Jomon period as ornaments, especially Niigata's Itoigawa region as world's oldest jade culture birthplace. Selected as Japan's national stone in 2016. In China, considered to embody five virtues: benevolence, righteousness, propriety, wisdom, and faith.
Features
- Various colors including translucent green, white, purple, pink, and blue
- Mohs hardness 6.5-7 with high toughness, resistant to breaking
- Selected as national stone as Japan's indigenous gemstone
- Itoigawa jade considered world's highest quality
Personality
- Stone granting patience and power to continue steady efforts
- Loves harmony and peace, cherishes human connections
- Nurtures humble and sincere nature
Symbolic Meaning
- Symbol of fortune, harmony, patience, and leap forward
- Embodiment of tranquility, compassion, and health
- Manifestation of five virtues: benevolence, righteousness, propriety, wisdom, faith
- Protection of longevity and prosperity
Reason for Selection
- Selected as May birthstone reflecting Japan's unique cultural values
- Beautiful green harmonizing with fresh green season suits May
- As gemstone long cherished in Japan
Protection & Effects
- Powerful force against misfortune and evil
- Protects physical health and enhances healing power
- Guards against interpersonal troubles
- Protects family from disasters
Trials & Growth
- Grants power to endure and overcome difficulties
- Supports long journey to achieve goals
- Grants wisdom to make right decisions at life's turning points