May - Emerald
Meaning: Love & Success
Throughout the centuries, the elegant emerald has symbolized the emergency of spring, growth, rebirth, eternal hope and to even improve memory, develop clairvoyance and even bring financial gain to its wearer.
The traditional color for the Emerald is a deep green hue, and was strongly favored in Victorian era jewellery. In some cultures, emeralds set in beautiful jewellery (rings, necklaces and earrings) are most popular for 55th, 20th and 35th wedding anniversaries.
Because the emerald often has many inclusions, it is a weaker stone and prone to breaking or cracking. Jewelers typically treat polished emeralds in a chemical oil to help seal fissures and enhance visual clarity. Oiling the emerald does not decrease its value, however. Emerald value is also judged by the "4 Cs" (see April Birthstone – Diamonds), but clarity is judged with the naked eye, not with magnification.