Prized for its brilliant and beautiful green color, the emerald is often favored by the rich and famous to wear as statement pieces for big events. But this beautiful gem is just at home in an unassuming pendant as it is in an ornate tiara. Learn more about the May birthstone below.

As the birthstone for May, the emerald, a symbol of rebirth, is believed to grant the owner foresight, good fortune and youth. Emerald, derived from the word “smaragdus,” means, quite literally, “green” in Greek.

Colombia has been the source of the finest emeralds for more than 500 years, and Colombian emeralds are the standard by which all others are measured. 

Emerald is a 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale of hardness, so it is more susceptible to scratching than a diamond, which ranks 10 on the scale. The May birthstone is often treated to improve its color or clarity.

Here at Suzy Levian we have entire collections with simulated emeralds and we love how each and every one of our jewelry pieces can stand out on its own for big events as well as a chilled friends night out. 

The emerald birthstone requires some special care: Avoid exposure to heat, changes in air pressure (such as in an airline cabin) and harsh chemicals. The safest way to clean emeralds is to gently scrub them with a soft brush and warm, soapy water.

Suzy Levian 14K White Gold Emerald Eternity Band Ring