Four Elements: Awakening Emeralds

May 1

What's your birthstone? It's kind of like your birthday but in gorgeous gemstone form. It's something to celebrate. The ancient Greeks believed everything was made of four elements: earth, water, air, and fire. We believe every birthstone month deserves (at least) four jewelry wishes. Happy birthstone!

Bright emeralds with profound meaning for May

May’s birthstone represents renewal, awakening, and resurrection—do you see a theme? I see things we all need now after the longest pandemic winter ever. Emeralds are also said to give youth, fortune, and foresight to its wearer, which might be why Cleopatra collected them, and it’s a favorite on the red carpet. You might think of big statement bling—ahem Elizabeth Taylor’s Bulgari suite—at the first mention of emerald jewelry, but it has its share of subtle, delicate style too. Here are four petite emerald jewels to awaken your inner light, whether you were born in May or not.

**EARTH**

After a career in styling that includes a three-year stint as Style Editor at *Vogue China*, Yi created a fine jewelry collection inspired by gemstones. Each dainty piece centers around one or more gems, including her Yi Collection x Opening Ceremony birthstone ring collaboration that can be worn alone or stacked to create ultimate pretty.
Yi Collection x Opening Ceremony silver with gold plating and emerald ring, $135 at Yi Collection

**FIRE**

Bleecker & Prince designer Leehe Segal is constantly designing new pieces, but she's as loyal to her signature pieces as her fans are. Shapes and colors (including emeralds) make up her Sticks & Stones necklace ideal for everyday wear.
14k yellow gold, emerald, and diamond “Sticks & Stones” necklace, $2,165 at Bleecker & Prince

**AIR**

These earrings are part of Bliss Lau’s Reflection collection that’s “inspired by the concept of visual entanglement, challenging the mystery of visual truth.” This NYC-based sustainability superstar’s work has a range of appeal—especially for those seeking a jewelry renewal.
18k recycled yellow gold and emerald “Reflection” earrings, $1,245 at Bliss Lau
*This item is sold out.

**WATER**

Jewelry artist Nayla Shami has a global view; she currently resides and designs in Texas, while artisans in Lebanon make some of her creations sold at MTJ jeweler Malouf on the Plaza in Santa Fe, NM. This combination of places results in delightful designs with meticulously set stones and metalwork like this chic cuff.
Nayla Shami 18k yellow gold and emerald cuff, $2,900 at Malouf on the Plaza
*This item is sold out.

Editor: Samantha Durbin

Market Editor: Johannah Masters

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