Home › Baby Names Directory › Gemma

Gemma

♀ Girl

Pronounced JEM-uh /ˈdʒɛm.ə/High

Meaning: Gem, precious stone — from Italian/Latin <em>gemma</em> (gem, precious stone, bud)High

In 30 seconds: From the Latin for 'gem' or 'precious stone,' Gemma is an Italian classic embraced by the English-speaking world. Dante named his wife Gemma, and the name has sparkled ever since.
💕 Browse more names
Origin HighItalian, Latin
MeaningGem, precious stone — from Italian/Latin <em>gemma</em> (gem, precious stone, bud)
Peak year2016
Total births (all-time)≈ 13,672

Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data

peak 201619042017

U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.

History & Origin

Gemma derives directly from the Latin and Italian word gemma, meaning 'gem,' 'precious stone,' or 'bud' (of a plant). The word entered Italian as a given name in the medieval period. It was used in Italy for centuries before spreading to the English-speaking world.

Gemma gained popularity in Britain in the late 20th century and spread to the United States, entering the U.S. top 200 girls' names in the 2010s. It has been boosted by appearances in popular culture, including the character Gemma Teller in the television series Sons of Anarchy (2008–2014). Its crisp two-syllable sound and jewel meaning give it strong appeal.

Did you know? Dante Alighieri's wife was named Gemma Donati (c. 1265–1333) — though ironically the great poet immortalized his unrequited love Beatrice, not Gemma, in La Vita Nuova and The Divine Comedy. History has been kind to the name regardless.

Variations

—

Nicknames

Gem

Famous Bearers

  • ★Gemma Arterton (b. 1986)
    British actress known for roles in Quantum of Solace, Tamara Drewe, and Gemma Bovery.

If you like Gemma…

Ruby— jewel/gem name with the same sparkling, vintage appeal
Cora— short, sweet vintage classic with the same simple elegance

Frequently Asked

What does the name Gemma mean?

Gemma comes directly from the Latin and Italian <em>gemma</em> meaning 'gem,' 'precious stone,' or 'bud.'

How do you pronounce Gemma?

Gemma is pronounced JEM-uh /ˈdʒɛm.ə/ — two syllables with stress on the first.

Is Gemma a boy or girl name?

Gemma is a girls' name.

How popular is Gemma?

Gemma entered the U.S. top 200 girls' names in the 2010s and continues to grow, especially popular in Britain and Australia.