The Birthstone Beauties Barbie collection, launched by Mattel, offers a unique intersection of collectible dolls and the enduring tradition of birthstones. Among these, the May Birthstone Beauty Barbie, representing the emerald, stands out as a striking example of how gemstone symbolism has been translated into popular culture. This article will explore the details of the May Emerald Barbie, its design, and its place within the broader Birthstone Beauties line, drawing exclusively from available sources.
The Birthstone Beauties collection began in 2002, with subsequent lines released in 2007, known as the Birthstone Beauties Pink Label Collection. These dolls were designed to represent each month’s birthstone through color and accompanying accessories. The May Barbie, specifically, embodies the rich, vibrant hue of the emerald, a gemstone long associated with renewal, growth, and prosperity.
History and Lore of the Birthstone Beauties Collection
The Birthstone Beauties collection was conceived as a collectible series, appealing to both Barbie enthusiasts and those interested in the symbolism of birthstones. The initial release in 2002 featured dolls in floor-length gowns, while the 2007 Pink Label collection adopted a more contemporary aesthetic with shorter dresses. The dolls quickly became popular collector’s items, with some individuals aiming to acquire the entire set, while others sought out the doll representing their own birth month. The collection’s appeal lies in its ability to connect personal significance – a birth month – with the beauty and allure of gemstones.
The 2007 iteration, to which the May Emerald Barbie belongs, is characterized by a more casual style, with each doll accompanied by a miniature dog on a leash. This addition distinguishes the 2007 dolls from their predecessors, offering a playful element alongside the elegant representation of each birthstone. Each dog’s leash and crown are color-coordinated with the doll’s birthstone, further emphasizing the thematic connection.
Design and Aesthetic of the May Emerald Barbie
The May Emerald Barbie is dressed in a lace cocktail dress with a velveteen shrug, mirroring the attire of the other dolls in the 2007 Birthstone Beauties Pink Label Collection. However, it is the color that truly defines this doll. The rich, forest green of the dress is specifically chosen to accurately portray the bold emerald stone. The design, while similar to other dolls in the line, leverages the striking color to create a visually impactful representation of May’s birthstone.
The doll also wears a gorgeous May birthstone necklace and charm bracelet, further reinforcing the gemstone theme. The overall design aims for a balance between elegance and contemporary style, reflecting the shift in aesthetic from the earlier, more formal gowns of the 2002 collection. The 2007 dolls, including the May Emerald Barbie, feature dresses that fall at the knee, creating a less formal and more approachable look.
The Emerald and its Symbolism
While the provided sources do not delve into the historical or metaphysical properties of the emerald itself, the doll’s design clearly intends to evoke the gemstone’s inherent qualities. The emerald, known for its vibrant green color, is often associated with rebirth, growth, and vitality. Its color is linked to spring and new beginnings, making it a fitting symbol for the month of May. The choice of a rich, forest green for the Barbie’s dress is a deliberate attempt to capture the essence of this symbolism.
The sources indicate that the dolls were designed to reflect the beauty of each birthstone, and the May Emerald Barbie successfully achieves this through its color palette and overall aesthetic. The doll’s appearance is intended to be an “accurate portrayal of the bold emerald stone,” suggesting a conscious effort to translate the gemstone’s visual characteristics into a collectible doll.
Market Value and Collectibility
The Birthstone Beauties Barbie dolls, including the May Emerald Barbie, have become popular collector’s items. The market value of these dolls varies, with some eBay auctions starting as low as $10, while others reach as high as $250. This price range reflects the condition of the doll, its rarity, and the demand from collectors. The May Emerald Barbie, along with January’s Garnet, March’s Aquamarine, June’s Pearl, September’s Sapphire, and December’s Turquoise, are identified as being among the most popular months within the collection.
The popularity of the collection is driven by a combination of factors, including the appeal of Barbie dolls, the enduring fascination with birthstones, and the collectible nature of the series. The dolls offer a unique way to celebrate personal milestones and connect with the symbolism of gemstones.
Variations and Production Details
The sources indicate that there are 36 versions of Birthstone Barbies, with three variations for each birth month, each featuring a different skin tone. All dolls within a given month share a similar design, with variations primarily limited to skin tone and subtle makeup differences. The dolls are produced on ModelMuse bodies and feature rooted hair, with the May Emerald Barbie likely featuring hair colors that complement the green of her dress.
The head sculpt used for the Birthstone Beauties collection is Steffie, a popular and recognizable Barbie head mold. The dolls are made of vinyl and are approximately 11-1/2 inches tall. The attention to detail in the design and production of these dolls contributes to their appeal as collectible items.
Care and Preservation
As collectible items, the Birthstone Beauties Barbie dolls require careful handling and preservation. The sources do not provide specific care instructions, but general guidelines for preserving Barbie dolls apply. These include storing the dolls in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, protecting them from dust and moisture, and handling them with clean hands. The delicate fabrics and accessories of the dolls require gentle care to prevent damage.
Conclusion
The May Emerald Barbie, as part of the Birthstone Beauties collection, represents a creative and engaging intersection of collectible dolls and gemstone symbolism. The doll’s design, specifically the rich forest green dress, effectively captures the essence of the emerald, May’s birthstone. The collection’s popularity as a whole demonstrates the enduring appeal of birthstones and their ability to connect with personal identity and cultural traditions. The May Emerald Barbie stands as a testament to Mattel’s ability to translate complex symbolism into a visually appealing and collectible product.