The name Gemma is of Italian origin and means "precious stone." It is a feminine given name that has gained popularity in recent years, particularly in English-speaking countries.
Gemma has its roots in the Latin word for precious stone, which is "gemma." In ancient times, gemstones were believed to possess magical properties and were often worn as jewelry or used in healing rituals. The name Gemma may have been chosen to represent the beauty, rarity, and power associated with these stones.
Throughout history, there have been several notable figures who bore the name Gemma. One of the most famous is Saint Gemma Galgani, an Italian mystic and stigmatic who lived in the late 19th century. She is venerated as a saint by the Catholic Church and is known for her visions of Jesus Christ and her extraordinary acts of penance.
Another notable figure named Gemma is the British actress Emma Thompson, who was born Emma Catherine Thomson but changed her name to Emma Thompson professionally. Although she is not commonly referred to as Gemma, this is indeed her given name.
In popular culture, the name Gemma has been used in various books, movies, and television shows. For example, it is the name of one of the main characters in the British drama series "The Crown," which follows the reign of Queen Elizabeth II.
Overall, the name Gemma is a beautiful and meaningful choice for a girl's name, with roots in ancient history and a connection to precious stones. Its association with notable figures like Saint Gemma Galgani and Emma Thompson only adds to its appeal.
The name Gemma experienced a significant rise in popularity from the late 20th century onwards. Between 1980 and 2022, there were over 22,600 births registered with the name Gemma, with a notable spike beginning around 1998. From 1998 to 2023, the number of annual births named Gemma increased from 111 to 1,649, indicating that this name has become quite popular in recent years. However, prior to the late 20th century, the name Gemma was not as commonly used, with fewer than 50 births per year between 1904 and 1989.