The provided sources center on a unique intersection of gemological tradition and popular culture: the representation of the emerald within Mattel’s Barbie Birthstone Collection. While these sources offer limited direct gemological information, they consistently associate the emerald with the month of May, as embodied in a series of collectible dolls. This article will explore the various iterations of the May Barbie doll, their market value, and the broader context of the Barbie Birthstone Collection, drawing exclusively from the provided data.
The Barbie Birthstone Collection: A Collector’s Focus
Launched in 2002 and continuing with the “Birthstone Beauties” series in 2007, the Barbie Birthstone Collection was designed to represent each month’s corresponding birthstone through collectible dolls. The collection encompasses dolls representing amethyst (February), diamond (April), pearl (June), ruby (July), sapphire (September), topaz (November), turquoise (December), aquamarine (March), garnet (January), opal (October), and peridot (August). The consistent inclusion of an emerald-themed doll for May demonstrates a deliberate effort by Mattel to align with established birthstone traditions. The dolls were marketed as collector’s items, appealing to both Barbie enthusiasts and those interested in gemstones.
The May Emerald Barbie: Variations and Releases
Several releases of the May Emerald Barbie doll are documented within the sources. The initial release in 2002 was designated “C5323” and is frequently described as “Redheaded” in collector listings. This doll was available both in new, boxed condition (NRFB – Never Removed From Box) and unboxed. A subsequent release, part of the 2007 “Birthstone Beauties” collection, is identified as “Miss Emerald,” with the model number “K8694.” This version is also commonly found listed as NRFB.
Further variations appear in the available listings. A listing specifically mentions a “Barbie Birthstone Collection May Emerald Doll W/stand B3413 2002 NEW NO BOX,” indicating a version sold without its original packaging. Another listing highlights a “Barbie Birthstone Collection May Emerald Doll REDheaded C5323 2002 RARE,” emphasizing the doll’s rarity and hair color. The sources also reveal that the dolls were available in varying conditions, including restyled or partially disassembled examples. This suggests a degree of play and modification among owners, alongside the collector market focused on pristine, boxed dolls.
The sources also list additional model numbers associated with the May Emerald Barbie, including C0575, further indicating multiple variations and releases over the collection’s lifespan. The presence of multiple model numbers for the same month suggests that Mattel may have made slight alterations to the doll’s design or packaging over time, catering to different collector preferences.
A Broader Look at the Collection
The sources provide a comprehensive list of all the dolls included in the Barbie Birthstone Collection. This list demonstrates the breadth of Mattel’s endeavor to represent each month with a corresponding gemstone-themed doll. The complete list is as follows:
- January: Garnet (B3409, C0583, C5331)
- February: Amethyst (B3410, C0584, C5332)
- March: Aquamarine (B3411, C0585, C5333)
- April: Diamond (B3412, C0586, C5334)
- May: Emerald (B3413, C0575, C5323)
- June: Pearl (B3414, C0576, C5324)
- July: Ruby (B3415, C0577, C5325)
- August: Peridot (B3416, C0578, C5326)
- September: Sapphire (B2394, C0579, C5327)
- October: Opal (B2395, C0580, C5328)
- November: Topaz (B2396, C0581, C5329)
- December: Turquoise/Zircon (not explicitly listed with model numbers)
The consistent production of dolls for each birthstone underscores Mattel’s strategic attempt to capitalize on the well-established tradition of associating gemstones with specific months. The multiple model numbers for some months, like January, February, March, and April, suggest varying production runs or slight design changes within the collection.
Market Value and Collectibility
The sources offer a snapshot of the market value of these dolls, demonstrating a range dependent on condition, rarity, and demand. The 2002 Emerald Barbie (C5323) generally commands a lower price point, with listings ranging from approximately $25.00 to $40.00. The 2007 “Miss Emerald” (K8694) typically lists for a higher price, often between $53.00 and $77.00, potentially reflecting its more recent release and perceived collectibility.
The listings also reveal instances of bidding activity, with some dolls selling for less than the listed price. One listing for a May Emerald doll (B3413) received no bids, indicating fluctuating demand. The presence of “Best Offer” options suggests a degree of price negotiation within the collector’s market. This variability in pricing highlights the subjective nature of collectible value, influenced by factors such as condition, completeness, and the individual collector’s preferences.
The following table summarizes the key details of the May Emerald Barbie dolls as presented in the sources:
| Doll Name/Series | Model Number | Year | Hair Color | Condition (Examples) | Price Range (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Barbie Birthstone Collection May Emerald | C5323 | 2002 | Redheaded | NRFB, Unboxed, No Box | $25.00 - $40.00 |
| Miss Emerald | K8694 | 2007 | (Not specified, assumed similar to C5323) | NRFB | $53.00 - $77.00 |
| May Emerald Doll | B3413 | 2002 | (Not specified) | New No Box | $19.99 (No Bids) |
Limited Gemological Context
It is crucial to note that the provided sources offer virtually no direct gemological information about emeralds themselves. They do not detail the gem’s chemical composition, hardness, refractive index, or geological origins. The information is entirely focused on the dolls and their collectible value. However, the consistent association of the emerald with the month of May within the collection implicitly acknowledges the established birthstone tradition. The sources confirm the emerald’s longstanding cultural recognition as the birthstone for May, even without providing any scientific or historical details about the gem itself.
Conclusion
The provided sources, while limited in gemological detail, offer a unique perspective on the cultural representation of the emerald through the Barbie Birthstone Collection. The consistent association of the emerald with May, as embodied in the various iterations of the May Barbie doll, reinforces the gemstone’s established position as the birthstone for that month. The market values and collector interest reflected in the listings demonstrate the enduring appeal of these dolls as both toys and collectible items. The data highlights the intersection of popular culture, gemological tradition, and the collector’s market. The sources do not provide sufficient information to expand significantly beyond this focused analysis of the Barbie Birthstone Collection and its representation of the May emerald.