GEMMA  (JEM-mah)

Gender: F
Origin: Italian
Meaning: "precious stone"

Popularity in 2008: #888

This jewel of a name was very popular in 1980s England, but is just starting to be discovered here as a substitute for the now-flagging Jenna. Coming from a medieval Italian nickname for a precious gem, it was used by Dante and borne by a 19th century saint.

Variations:
Jemma, Gemmey, Gemmy, Gemmie, Gèmma, Gema, Gem, Jemsa

People who like Gemma also like:

Amelie, Audrey, Willa, Clara, Hazel, Lila, Matilda, Mirabel, Olive, Paloma, Ruby, Savannah, Henry, Milo, Oliver

Gemma is being discussed in our message boards:

• sister for Isla Hope
• Need help naming our daughter!
• 3 boys...now a girl and i'm stuck!
• Alternative to Audrey?
• Create Your Own Family (10 Kids!)

Read Nameberry blog posts about Gemma:

• NAMEBERRY FAVES: The names nameberryites love most
• NAMEBERRY MAKEOVER: Renovating the Top Ten Girls' Names
• NEWEST BABY NAMES: Clara Is This Year's Claire
• JEWEL NAMES FOR YOUR LITTLE GEM