May birthstone list and meaning Difference between emerald and jade and how to choose
BIRTHSTONE GUIDE — MAY
May birthstone list and meanings
May birthstone list and meanings
Difference between emerald and jade and how to choose
"Is emerald the right birthstone for May?" "I heard that jade is also available..."
All these questions will be answered in one article. We will give you a thorough guide on how to choose a gift without making any mistakes.
When looking to gift jewelry to someone born in May, many people may have searched for the question, "Which birthstone is it?"
In conclusion,The two birthstones for May are emerald and jade.. There is nothing wrong with etiquette no matter which you choose.
In this article, we will introduce two stoneMeaning, difference, price rangeIn addition, a list of "birthday stones" from May 1st to May 31st is also posted.How to choose a gift without making mistakeswill be explained in an easy-to-understand manner by budget and scene.
Table of contents of this article
- What is May's birthstone? Emerald and jade are correct
- The base is emerald, the other is jade
- Why you can't go wrong with either choice
- Why are there multiple birthstones for May? Differences and ways of thinking
- What is emerald? Meaning/origin/characteristics
- Meaning of stone words and presents
- Points that affect value
- What is jade? Meaning/origin/characteristics
- stone words and meanings
- Difference between jadeite and nephrite
- Is there anything other than emerald? May birthstone list
- How to choose emerald and jade
- [By budget] How to choose jewelry (10,000 to 100,000 yen)
- How to choose a gift without making mistakes
- Where should I buy it? Reliable purchasing sources and brands
- Frequently asked questions
- Finally
What is May's birthstone? Emerald and jade are the correct answers.
💠The basic one is emerald, the other one is jade.
The birthstone of May isemeraldandJade (Jade/Jadeite)There are two types.
For many years in Japan, emerald was the only birthstone for May, but in 2021, the National Jewelry Wholesalers Cooperative revised its birthstone for the first time in 63 years. Jade has been officially added as the birthstone for May.
▼ There are two birthstones for May.
💚 🟢
emerald(Transparent deep green) + jade(soft green to white green)
Both are "green gemstones," but their shine, texture, and price range are very different.
Both are "green gemstones," but their shine, texture, and price range are very different.
| Comparison items | 💎 emerald | 🟢 Jade |
|---|---|---|
| classification | beryl mineral | Jadeite |
| color | Bright green to blue-green | Light green to dark green, white, purple |
| transparency | Transparent (many inclusions) | Translucent to opaque |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 7.5〜8 | 6.5〜7 |
| stone words | love, happiness, prosperity | Longevity, success, stability |
| Price range (jewelry) | 30,000 to several million yen | 10,000 to several hundred thousand yen |
| impression | Gorgeous/luxury | Elegant, calm, Japanese style |
✅Why you can't go wrong with either choice
Both emerald and jade are determined by the Japan Jewelry Association.official may birthstoneIt is. There is no superiority or inferiority, such as "It has to be emerald" or "Jade is inferior".
💡 Conclusion on gift selection (first-come-first-serve)
- If you get lostemeraldIt's safe (famous/glam ◎)
- If the other person "likes Japanese taste" or "likes calm design"jadewill also be pleased
- No matter which one you gift, there is no problem with etiquette as it is the birthstone for May.
Why are there multiple birthstones for May? Differences and ways of thinking
Many people are confused, "What does it mean to have two birthstones?" However, in fact, most months have multiple birthstones.
📖 A quick understanding of the history of birthstones
- 1912: Originated when the Jewelers Guild of America established "one jewel for each month"
- 2002: Revisions are progressing in each country, including the addition of tanzanite in December.
- 2021: Japan's birthstones have been revised for the first time in 63 years, with 10 new stones added including jade and alexandrite.
The reason there are multiple birthstones is because of ``differences depending on era, culture, and region.'' There is no unified global standard, and in Japan the list established by the National Jewelry Wholesalers Cooperative Association is most commonly referred to.
▼ Structural image of birthstones
📅
"Birthstone of the Moon"= Officially designated stones (emerald + jade for May)
"Birthday stones by day"= Originated from books and fortune-telling, not officially certified.
→ For presentsIf you choose the “monthly birthstone”, you will be sure
"Birthday stones by day"= Originated from books and fortune-telling, not officially certified.
→ For presentsIf you choose the “monthly birthstone”, you will be sure
📌 This is the point
- The Moon Birthstone is certified by a public institution, so it is highly reliable as a basis for gifts.
- "Birthday stones" are a good topic of discussion, but the general awareness is low.
- If you're giving a gift to someone, it's easier to convey the message by saying, "May's birthstone is emerald (or jade)."
What is emerald? Meaning/origin/characteristics
💎
Emerald ─ Emerald
It is also famous as the jewel that was loved by Cleopatra of ancient Egypt. It is counted as one of the "Four Great Jewels" and is the highest quality colored stone along with diamond, ruby, and sapphire.
🌿Stone words (love, happiness, prosperity) and the meaning of presents
Emerald stone words"Love" "Happiness" "Prosperity" "Hope". It has a perfect meaning as a gift for your lover, spouse, or mother.
💚 Recommended for these scenes
- Birthday gift for girlfriend/wife → Message of “sending love and happiness”
- Birthstones coincide with Mother's Day (May) → Stone words can be added to the feeling of "thank you for always"
- Great as a souvenir for your 20th wedding anniversary (emerald wedding)
🔍Points that affect value (color, transparency, inclusions)
Emerald is a gemstone that is prone to inclusions. In fact, inclusion is a given, and in some cultures, inclusion is called "jardin" (French for garden) and is considered a part of the taste.
pale green
Low ratingslightly green
↑bright green
Medium to highdeep bright green
High ratingtoo dark green
Slightly lower| Evaluation element | high quality | Points to note |
|---|---|---|
| color | deep and vivid green | If it is too light or too dark, the evaluation will be lowered. |
| transparency | Transparent yet deep in color | Complete transparency is almost impossible in nature. |
| inclusions | Less or Beautiful Jardin | Be careful of visible cracks |
| processing | Oil impregnation is common (acceptable) | Resin filling reduces value |
| Production area | Colombian products are the highest rated | Don't judge only by the place of origin |
💡 Tips on how to choose emeralds for gifts
- Is “bright green” beautiful at first glance? Intuitive beauty is the top priority
- Inclusions are proof of nature. No problem as long as it's not very noticeable
- You can feel safe if you choose a product that comes with a certificate of authenticity.
Find May birthstone jewelry
We have a wide selection of emerald and jade rings, necklaces, and earrings.
Selby online shop with peace of mind that comes with a certificate of authenticity
View product list →
Selby online shop with peace of mind that comes with a certificate of authenticity
What is jade? Meaning/origin/characteristics
🟢
Jade ─ Jade / Jadeite
Magatama is one of the oldest gemstones in Japan, and has been prized since the Jomon period. In Eastern culture, it is called "gyoku" and is a symbol of virtue and authority.
🍃Stone words (longevity, success, stability) and meanings
Jade stone words"Longevity" "Success" "Stability" "Patience". The meaning matches well with a gift to pray for a long life to a mother, or a gift to support a partner who is working hard at work.
🍃 Jade is easy to please the following people.
- Those who like modern Japanese and natural fashion
- Those who are interested in power stones and natural stones
- A gift for your superiors or your mother (the word "longevity" goes well with the stone)
- Those who are attracted to the story of “Japan’s national stone”
⚖️Difference between jadeite and nephrite
The stone called "jade"Jadeite (Jadeite)andNephrite (soft jade)There are two types. What is considered valuable as a gemstone?Jadeite (Jadeite) onlyIt is.
| Comparison items | Jadeite (Jadeite)✅ | Nephrite (soft jade)⚠️ |
|---|---|---|
| Mineral name | jade pyroxene | Treolite - Epidote |
| hardness | 6.5〜7 | 6〜6.5 |
| Value as a jewel | ◎ Expensive | △ Low |
| highest quality designation | Loukan (Loukan) | ─ |
| price | Tens of thousands to tens of millions of yen | Hundreds to tens of thousands of yen |
⚠️ Precautions when purchasing
- Even if it is written as "jade" or "jade", it may be nephrite.
- For a present"Jadeite" "Genuine Jade"Select the product marked with
- If the identification book says “natural jadeite” then it is certain.
Is there anything other than emerald? List of birthstones and birthstones for May
If you search "What is the birthstone for May XX?", you will find the "birthstone" for each day. This is based on books and fortune-telling, and is different from the officially recognized "birthstone of the moon." However, knowing the stone that corresponds to the recipient's birthday will add a special touch to the gift.
| date | birthday stone | stone words |
|---|---|---|
| May 1st | amazonite | Hope, belief, distraction |
| May 2nd | tiger eye | Insight/decisiveness |
| May 3rd | morganite | Grace/Charity |
| May 4th | Peridot rough stone | Happiness/marital love |
| May 5th | blood red coral | Amulet/Longevity |
| May 6th | Idocrase | promise/cooperation |
| May 7th | Morion | Ward off evil spirits/purify |
| May 8th | emerald cat's eye | imagination/compassion |
| May 9th | black pearl | quiet strength |
| May 10th | turquoise rough stone | Travel safety and friendship |
| May 11th | blue lace agate | peace/healing |
| May 12th | kakokusenite | Purification/Harmony |
| May 13th | Ivory (ivory) | The power of purity and ethics |
| May 14th | blue green zircon | The pain of passing away |
| May 15th | angelite | angel's protection |
| May 16th | Amber | Longevity/financial luck |
| May 17th | purple sapphire | Memories of first love |
| May 18th | goshenite | Elegance/intelligence |
| May 19th | blue chalcedony | calmness/compassion |
| May 20th | garden quartz | healing of the earth |
| May 21st | lapis lazuli | sublime/truth |
| May 22nd | dendritic quartz | satisfying growth |
| May 23rd | selenite | Purification/Intuition |
| May 24th | moonstone | Power of the Moon/Premonition of Love |
| May 25th | blue amber | flame of intelligence |
| May 26th | lemon quartz | luck/brightness |
| May 27th | green tourmaline | Patience/Growth |
| May 28th | white chalcedony | elegance/harmony |
| May 29th | agate | Connection/stability |
| May 30th | tsavorite | Influence/vitality |
| May 31st | chrysoprase | Abundance/Victory |
📌 Points for using birthday stones
- Choose the moon's birthstone (emerald or jade) as the main item, and add a note to the card saying, ``My birthday stone for ○ is △△'' for a more surprising feel.
- Moonstone (May 24th) and lapis lazuli (May 21st) are popular as jewelry alone.
- If you can find a birthday stone other than green, you can help people who don't like green.
Which birthstone should you choose for May? How to choose emerald and jade
🎁Why emeralds are a safe gift
In conclusion,When in doubt, choose emerald and you will be sure. There are three reasons.
💎 Three reasons why emerald is “safe”
- Overwhelmingly well-known ─ “May’s birthstone = emerald” is common sense and easy for recipients to understand.
- Lots of choices for jewelry ─ Many brands carry necklaces, rings, earrings, etc.
- Rank of “Four Great Jewels” ─ It has the same prestige as diamonds, rubies, and sapphires, so it can create a special feeling.
💭The idea of choosing based on the other person's preferences and meanings
However, ``emerald is not necessarily the correct answer.'' Depending on the recipient, there are cases where jade is more pleasing. Please refer to the flowchart below.
Is your partner gorgeous? Calm type?
▼
I like glamor and glitter
→ emerald 💎
Attractive transparency and cut shine
→ emerald 💎
Attractive transparency and cut shine
I like natural/Japanese modern style
→ Jade 🟢
Gentle luster and warmth
→ Jade 🟢
Gentle luster and warmth
▼
When in doubt → Regarding popularity and formalityemeraldSo◎
| opponent type | Recommended | reason |
|---|---|---|
| I like brand jewelry | 💎 emerald | A rich lineup of brands |
| I like power stones | 🟢 Jade | Attracted to natural stones and spiritual backgrounds |
| to mom | 🟢 Jade | The stone word “longevity” is perfect for a gift. |
| Girlfriend (20s to 30s) | 💎 emerald | Easy to create a gorgeous and special feeling |
| Someone who doesn't like green | ─ See below | See how to deal with "color preferences" below. |
[By budget] How to choose May birthstone jewelry (10,000 yen to 100,000 yen)
💰10,000 yen to 30,000 yen | Easy-to-gift accessories
💰 Budget 10,000 to 30,000 yen - Casual jewelry
Even in this price range, it can be used as a gift as "birthstone jewelry". Although the design is mainly small, it has the advantage of being easy to use on a daily basis.
- emerald petite necklace(about 0.1~0.3ct) - Single stone type. Perfect for everyday use
- jade earrings ─ Cabochon-cut jade gives a soft impression
- Emerald + 925 silver ring ─ Easy to use as a fashion ring
⚠️ Emeralds in this price range tend to have smaller stones and lighter colors.Do you think the colors are beautiful when you look at the real thing?Choose based on.
💎30,000 yen to 100,000 yen | Standard for authentic jewelry
💎 Budget: 30,000 to 100,000 yen - Authentic jewelry
You can choose a quality product that is made of K18 (18-karat gold) material and set with a solid-sized emerald, and can be used for a long time as a "proper jewelry".
- Emerald + K18 necklace(0.3~0.8ct) ─ The most standard item for anniversaries
- emerald + diamond entourage ring ─ The gorgeousness is on a whole other level. For anniversaries other than proposals
- Jade K18 ring ─ High-quality jadeite is transparent and beautiful.
- jade bangle bracelet ─ Items that highlight the charm of jade
▼ How to choose by budget matrix
📊
10,000 to 30,000 yen：Small × For everyday use × Easy to use → Necklaces and earrings are ◎
30,000 to 100,000 yen: Presence × Anniversary × Special feeling → Rings and entourage necklaces are ◎
30,000 to 100,000 yen: Presence × Anniversary × Special feeling → Rings and entourage necklaces are ◎
For those who want to actually see and choose emeralds and jade
At the Selby Okachimachi store, you can see emerald and jade jewelry in person.
Our staff can also assist with budget and design consultations.
View store information →
Our staff can also assist with budget and design consultations.
How to choose a May birthstone that won't fail as a gift
🎨Color preferences (what to do if you don't like green)
The birthstones for May are both emerald and jade. If your partner doesn't like green accessories, you can deal with it in the following ways.
💡 How to deal with opponents who don't like green
- jade lavender colorChoose ─ Jade comes in a variety of colors, including purple, white, and black. Lavender jade is very popular among women.
- Find a different color with your birthday stone ─ May 24th moonstone (white type), May 17th purple sapphire (purple type), etc.
- Small emerald x diamond entourage- The brilliance of the diamond takes center stage, and the green color is not overemphasized.
- If you add "It's the birthstone of May" to the card, it will be more important than your color preference.Conveys feelings and stories
📏Points to keep in mind when it comes to size and design
📏 golden rule to not fail
- Avoid rings if you don't know your size. ─ Necklace or earrings are the safest choice
- Single grain type/simple designVersatile ─ Can be used for a long time regardless of fashion
- Chain length is 40-45cmis standard ─ size can be adjusted if it comes with an adjuster
- If you want to give a ring as a gift, secretly take the other person's other ring and check the size at the store, or buy it at a store that allows size exchanges.
Do you know your partner's ring size?
▼
I understand
→ Ring is also a candidate ✅
→ Ring is also a candidate ✅
I don't know
→ Necklace or earrings 🎯
→ Necklace or earrings 🎯
▼
The design is "One grain, simple" is the iron plate
Where should I buy it? Reliable purchasing sources and brands
🏢Differences between department stores, brands, and the internet
Department store/brand direct management
◎ Benefits
・Good customer service and wrapping
・Brand guarantee included
・You can check the real thing
・Good customer service and wrapping
・Brand guarantee included
・You can check the real thing
△ Disadvantages
・Price is high
・Limited stone choices
・Price is high
・Limited stone choices
Jewelry specialty EC site
◎ Benefits
・A wide variety of products
・Price is more affordable than department stores
・Many come with a certificate of identification
・A wide variety of products
・Price is more affordable than department stores
・Many come with a certificate of identification
△ Disadvantages
・Only photos can be used to confirm the actual item.
・It is important to choose a reliable store
・Only photos can be used to confirm the actual item.
・It is important to choose a reliable store
power stone store
◎ Benefits
・A wide variety of natural stones
・Extensive range of jade
・There is also a low price range
・A wide variety of natural stones
・Extensive range of jade
・There is also a low price range
△ Disadvantages
・Jewelry quality is △
・Even if there is no identification document
・Be careful when mixing with nephrite
・Jewelry quality is △
・Even if there is no identification document
・Be careful when mixing with nephrite
🔰Purchase method recommended for beginners
💡 How to avoid making mistakes when purchasing jewelry for the first time
- Choose products with a certificate of authenticity ─ It's safe to have documents that confirm "natural emerald" and "natural jadeite"
- Best if you can confirm the actual item. ─ Look at the actual color and shine at the store and choose the one that you feel is “pretty”
- Online EC site for jewelry specialty store ─ Choose a store that has detailed jewelry information, images of identification documents, and return policy.
- Don't be too particular about the brand ─ If you have the same budget, it is a wise choice to spend more on the quality of the stone than on the brand box.
| Check items | Check points |
|---|---|
| Identification book | Description of “natural emerald” and “natural jadeite” |
| Material notation | Types of metal such as K18 / Pt900 / SV925 |
| Processing or not | Emerald oil treatment is common (no problems) |
| Returns/size exchanges | You can rest assured by choosing a store that can accommodate your needs. |
| wrapping | Check in advance to see if gifts are available. |
Frequently asked questions about May birthstone
Which should be prioritized: birthday stone or birthstone?
We recommend giving priority to the ``monthly birthstone'' as a gift.
The birthstones of the moon (emerald and jade) have been certified by public institutions and are widely recognized, so they are easy to convey to the recipient. Birthstones are derived from books and divination, so there is no unified standard, and they may differ depending on the source.
However, if you add a note to the card saying, ``It seems like the birthday stone for ○ day is △△,'' it will make for a special surprise. It is ideal to use the birthstone of the month as the main information, and the birthstone as secondary information.
Is it okay to give a cheap birthstone as a gift?
Of course it's okay.What's important is not the price, but the feeling that the product was chosen for me.
Even for an emerald necklace that costs around 10,000 yen, just adding the story that ``I researched and chose May's birthstone'' can make a big difference in the impression of the recipient.
However, if it is too cheap (less than a few thousand yen), you may be concerned about the quality of the stone and the durability of the base metal. If you have a limited budget, it is better to choose a small but high-quality one that will last a long time and be appreciated.
Are emeralds easily damaged? Can it be used daily?
Emerald has a Mohs hardness of 7.5 to 8, making it suitable for everyday use. However,Due to the nature of the product having many inclusions, care must be taken against strong impacts.It is.
Necklaces and earrings have a lower risk of bumping than rings, making them suitable for everyday use. We recommend cleaning with a soft cloth instead of using an ultrasonic cleaner.
How to care for jade?
Jade has very high toughness (resistance to breaking) and is actuallyDaily durability is better than emeraldIt is.
To clean, simply wipe away sweat and sebum with a soft cloth after use. When not in use for a long time, please store it separately in a jewelry pouch.
Is it okay for men to wear the May birthstone?
Of course it is.Jade, in particular, has a long history as a signet ring and tie pin for men. Emeralds are also commonly used in men's jewelry overseas.
Deep green is a color that gives a sense of intelligence and calmness, so it wouldn't look out of place for a man to wear it.
We will purchase your existing emeralds and jade.
For those who have birthstone jewelry that they no longer use or want to replace it with a new design.
Please feel free to contact Selby for a free assessment.
Apply for a free assessment →
Please feel free to contact Selby for a free assessment.
Finally
May's birthstone isemeraldandjade. Whichever you choose is "correct".
What's important is the fact that you made your choice with the other person in mind. The jewelry you choose with knowledge is sure to convey your feelings.
When in doubt, the ``Emerald x Single Necklace'' is the answer. If you know your partner's preferences, you can add some originality with jade or a birthday stone.
We hope this article helps you choose a gift for your loved one born in May.
Written by: Kozo Saito (EC/SNS/Ruth/Product Production Department Manager)