an Unpolished emerald

Emerald

May's birthstone

Photograph by Jan Sochor

Represents pure love

Your affection for those you love is clear. You’re not embarrassed by hugs—even from your parents in front of your friends!

Old-school myths

An emerald can melt a snake's eyes! Well, that's what people used to believe. They also thought these gems would relax your eyes if you looked through them. Other beliefs: Emeralds stopped bleeding, cured fevers, and kept the wearer calm. They also supposedly held powers for predicting the future.

Rock-solid facts

Emeralds are sometimes found inside shale, a rock with a very fine grain. Like aquamarines, they're a form of the mineral beryl. These gems are a light to deep green.