The May birthstone is the emerald, which belongs to the beryl family of minerals along with aquamarine, heliodor, and morganite.
Emeralds vary in color from light to deep green, with their color believed to be derived from the presence of chromium and/or vanadium.
Emeralds are most frequently found inside a form of shale and are sourced from countries like Colombia, Russia, the United States, Zambia, Brazil, and others.
Historically, emeralds were worn by royalty in Babylon and Egypt, and there are many myths associated with their healing powers and symbolism throughout different time periods.