The provided sources detail a fascinating intersection of gemology and popular culture: the Barbie Birthstone Collection. While not offering extensive gemological detail, these sources reveal a consistent association of the emerald with the month of May, manifested in a series of collectible dolls produced by Mattel. This article will explore the representation of the emerald within this collection, drawing exclusively from the provided data, and outlining the various iterations of the May Barbie doll.
A Collector’s Focus: The Barbie Birthstone Series
The core of the available information centers around the Barbie Birthstone Collection, launched by Mattel in 2002 and continuing with the “Birthstone Beauties” series in 2007. These dolls were designed to represent each month’s corresponding birthstone, offering collectors a unique and visually appealing tribute to these gems. The sources consistently list 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 focus of this article, however, is the May iteration, consistently represented by the emerald.
The May Emerald Barbie: Variations and Releases
The sources indicate several releases of the May Emerald Barbie doll. The initial release in 2002 was a doll designated as “C5323,” often described as “Redheaded” in listings. Multiple sources confirm the existence of this doll, both in new, boxed condition (NRFB – Never Removed From Box) and unboxed. A later release, part of the 2007 “Birthstone Beauties” collection, is identified as “Miss Emerald,” with the model number “K8694.” This version is also frequently listed as NRFB.
Further variations appear in the listings. One source mentions a “Barbie Birthstone Collection May Emerald Doll W/stand B3413 2002 NEW NO BOX,” indicating a version sold without the original packaging. Another listing details a “Barbie Birthstone Collection May Emerald Doll REDheaded C5323 2002 RARE,” emphasizing the doll’s rarity and hair color. The sources also show that the dolls were available in different conditions, ranging from brand new in the box to restyled or partially disassembled.
Limited Gemological Context
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.
Market Value and Collectibility
The sources provide a snapshot of the market value of these dolls, demonstrating a range depending on condition, rarity, and demand. The 2002 Emerald Barbie (C5323) appears to command a slightly lower price point, with listings ranging from approximately $25.00 to $40.00. The 2007 “Miss Emerald” (K8694) generally 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, while others attracted multiple watchers, indicating varying levels of interest. The presence of “Best Offer” options suggests a degree of price negotiation within the collector’s market.
A Table Summarizing May Emerald Barbie Dolls
| 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) |
The Broader Barbie Birthstone Collection
While the focus is on the May Emerald Barbie, the sources provide a broader overview of the entire collection. Dolls representing other birthstones are consistently listed, including:
- January: Garnet
- February: Amethyst
- March: Aquamarine
- April: Diamond
- June: Pearl
- July: Ruby
- September: Sapphire
- October: Opal
- November: Topaz
- December: Turquoise/Zircon
The consistent production of dolls for each birthstone demonstrates Mattel’s deliberate attempt to capitalize on the established tradition of associating gemstones with specific months. The dolls were marketed as collector’s items, appealing to both Barbie enthusiasts and gemstone aficionados.
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.