The month of May boasts not one, but two recognized birthstone options: the vibrant emerald and, more recently, the captivating green onyx. Both gemstones are frequently featured in stud earring designs, offering a subtle yet elegant way to celebrate a May birthday. This article will explore the characteristics, historical context, and available options for May birthstone stud earrings, drawing exclusively from available sources.
History and Lore
The emerald holds the longer-established association with May. Sources indicate that emeralds are believed to bring loyalty and promote unity and friendship. While the origins of this belief are not detailed within the provided materials, the association highlights the gemstone’s historical significance as a symbol of positive relationships. The use of emeralds in jewelry dates back centuries, and their enduring appeal is reflected in their continued popularity in contemporary designs, such as the stud earrings discussed here.
Green onyx, while a more modern addition to the May birthstone list, also carries symbolic weight. One source simply states that green onyx is a birthstone for May, without elaborating on specific lore. This suggests a more recent adoption of the stone into the birthstone tradition, potentially driven by market demand and the desire to offer a wider range of price points.
Gemological Properties and Available Options
The provided sources detail several key characteristics of both emeralds and green onyx as they appear in stud earring designs. Emeralds featured in stud earrings typically measure approximately 5mm in diameter and are faceted. These emeralds are set in sterling silver (.925) and require cleaning with a silver cloth to maintain their luster.
ALOA Jewelry specifies that their emerald studs feature genuine, rose-cut emeralds measuring 4mm in size. These are available in settings of sterling silver, gold-filled, and solid 14K gold. The rose cut, a style of gemstone cutting, is not further defined in the provided materials.
Green onyx stud earrings, as offered by Honey Willow, also measure approximately 5mm in diameter. These are handcrafted with either sterling silver or 14k gold-fill settings. Gold-fill is described as 14k gold bonded to a base metal, offering a durable and hypoallergenic option suitable for sensitive ears.
A significant portion of the provided information focuses on cubic zirconia (CZ) as an alternative to natural gemstones. Body Candy offers 5mm pear-shaped CZ birthstone stud earrings in .925 sterling silver with nickel-free rhodium plating. These earrings are presented as an affordable and dazzling option for everyday wear. The CZ is described as “AAA” quality, indicating a high standard of clarity and brilliance, though the specific grading criteria are not detailed.
The following table summarizes the key gemological properties and material options as presented in the sources:
| Gemstone | Size (approx.) | Cut | Setting Options | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Emerald | 5mm | Faceted | Sterling Silver | Requires silver polishing |
| Emerald | 4mm | Rose-cut | Sterling Silver, Gold Filled, 14K Gold | |
| Green Onyx | 5mm | N/A | Sterling Silver, 14K Gold-fill | Suitable for sensitive ears (gold-fill) |
| Cubic Zirconia | 5mm x 7mm | Pear Shape | .925 Sterling Silver | AAA Quality, Rhodium Plated, Nickel Free |
Manufacturing and Sourcing
Honey Willow specifies that their green onyx stud earrings are handmade in Bath, England, and that the company is a family business founded in 2010. Lime Tree Design is based in Nottinghamshire, UK, and provides details regarding their shipping and return policies. These details suggest a significant presence of these particular earring designs originating from the United Kingdom.
Shipping information is provided for several regions, including the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, and Australia. Delivery times vary depending on the selected shipping method and destination. Customs duties and taxes may apply for international orders, and the responsibility for these charges rests with the recipient.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
As previously mentioned, emeralds are associated with loyalty, unity, and friendship. The sources do not elaborate on any other metaphysical properties or symbolic meanings attributed to emeralds. Green onyx is presented solely as a birthstone for May, without any accompanying symbolic interpretations. The limited information suggests that the symbolism associated with green onyx is less established or less emphasized than that of the emerald.
Care and Cleaning
The sources offer limited guidance on the care and cleaning of these stud earrings. Lime Tree Design recommends cleaning sterling silver settings with a silver cloth. No specific cleaning instructions are provided for emeralds, green onyx, or cubic zirconia. However, general gemstone care guidelines suggest avoiding harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, and abrasive materials when cleaning any gemstone jewelry.
Market Availability and Pricing
The provided sources represent a range of retailers offering May birthstone stud earrings. Body Candy offers the most affordable option with their CZ earrings priced at $23.99 (on sale from $42.99). Lime Tree Design offers emerald stud earrings, while ALOA Jewelry provides options in various metals for their emerald studs. Honey Willow offers green onyx stud earrings. The price range reflects the material choices, with sterling silver being the most affordable and 14K gold the most expensive.
Conclusion
May birthstone stud earrings offer a variety of options to suit different preferences and budgets. The traditional emerald, with its historical associations of loyalty and friendship, remains a popular choice. The more recent addition of green onyx provides an alternative, particularly for those seeking a different aesthetic or a more affordable price point. Cubic zirconia offers a dazzling and cost-effective substitute for natural gemstones. The availability of these earrings in various metals and settings allows for personalization and ensures a suitable option for every wearer. The provided sources highlight the craftsmanship and sourcing practices of several UK-based businesses, offering a glimpse into the production and distribution of these beautiful birthstone accessories.