May birthstone jewelry
May birthstone necklaces, rings & gifts
How to choose emerald jewelry that lasts, what it should cost, and gift ideas that pair the stone with the May birth flower.
- Stone
- Emerald
- Hardness
- 7.5–8
- Typical price
- Fine emeralds can rival diamond prices
- Care
- Hard but brittle, and usually oil-treated
Shop May birthstone jewelry
May birthstone necklaceDainty emerald pendants, the #1 birth month giftShop on Amazon →Emerald ringsSolitaires, stackers & bezel settingsShop on Amazon →May birthstone braceletCharm & chain bracelets with tiny stonesShop on Amazon →Emerald stud earringsSimple studs that go with everythingShop on Amazon →
Lily of the Valley birth flower necklaceThe May flower, engraved or pressedShop on Amazon →Flower + stone necklaceBoth your symbols in one pieceShop on Amazon →As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you. Disclosure.
May jewelry ideas
Dainty pendant necklace
A small emerald solitaire or bezel pendant on a fine chain is the most popular May birthstone gift: easy to wear, easy to size, and usually under $60 in sterling silver or gold vermeil.
Birthstone ring
At 7.5–8 on the Mohs scale, emerald is tough enough for an everyday ring.
Stacking or charm bracelet
Add a emerald charm to a bracelet, or choose a chain bracelet with tiny set stones. It's a nice way to add a stone for each new family member.
Flower + stone pieces
Many makers combine the lily of the valley with a emerald, like an engraved lily of the valley disc with a stone charm. These make the most personal May gift.
Buying tips
- Natural, lab-created or simulated: natural and lab-created stones are real gems. "Simulated" or "-ite" names usually mean glass or cubic zirconia.
- Metal: look for solid 14k gold, sterling silver (925) or gold vermeil. Avoid unmarked "gold-tone" pieces for daily wear.
- Care: Hard but brittle, and usually oil-treated. Skip ultrasonic cleaners and steam. Wipe gently and remove before hard work.
- Alternatives: For a budget version, look for lab-created emerald.
May birthstone meaning All birthstone jewelry
Questions, answered
What jewelry has the May birthstone?
May's birthstone is emerald. Popular pieces are pendant necklaces, stud earrings, rings and charm bracelets.
Is lab-created emerald real?
Lab-created gems have the same chemistry and look as mined ones and cost less. They're a great choice for birthstone jewelry. Just make sure the listing says "lab-created" rather than "simulated," which means glass or a different stone.
What metal goes with emerald?
Yellow gold warms up emerald, while white gold, platinum and sterling silver look crisp and modern. Match the metal to the jewelry the wearer already has.
Your birth month, in your inbox
Get your flower & stone card
One pretty email a month: that month's flower and birthstone, plus a heads-up before family birthdays. No spam.