"gem, precious jewel"
Gema
A gem of a name — precious and pure
Meaning & Origin
"bud, young shoot"
The Story of Gema
Gema is the Spanish form of Gemma, derived from the Latin gemma meaning gem, bud, or jewel. It was popularized through Saint Gemma Galgani (1878-1903), an Italian mystic and stigmatic who was canonized in 1940. The Spanish spelling Gema drops one m, making it a distinctly Hispanic variant of this beautiful name.
Gema has been a consistently popular name in Spain and Latin America, particularly among Catholic families who revere Saint Gemma Galgani. In Spain, it remains a recognizable classic that hasn't dated as badly as other mid-century names.
Saint Gemma Galgani is the patron saint of students, pharmacists, and those with back problems. Her life of mystical experiences and stigmata has made her one of the most popular modern saints in Italy and Spain. The name carries gentle devout associations throughout the Catholic world.
Fun Facts
- Saint Gemma Galgani became a saint just 37 years after her death, unusually fast for canonization
- The word gemma in Latin also means bud, suggesting new life and growth
Gema in Other Languages
Famous People Named Gema
Gemma Arterton
Actor
1986
British actress known for Quantum of Solace and Clash of the Titans (variant spelling)
Saint Gemma Galgani
Religious
1878
Italian mystic and stigmatic canonized in 1940, patron saint of students
Gema (singer)
Musician
Spanish singer popular in the 1980s and 1990s
Quick Facts
- Gender
- Girl
- Syllables
- 2
- Popularity Rank
- #1,730
- Total SSA Count
- 117
- Cultural Origins
- Spanish Italian Latin American
- Pronunciation
- Moderate
- Formality
- Moderate
- Cross-Cultural Ease
- Moderate
Alternative Spellings
Pairs Well With
Sibling Names
Similar Names
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Frequently Asked Questions About Gema
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About the Name Gema
Gema is a girl name with Spanish, Italian, and Latin American origins . The name means "gem, precious jewel" in Latin .
Gema is currently ranked #1,730 in popularity for girl names in the United States.
The name Gema has 2 syllables, making it easy to pronounce and remember.
Alternative spellings of Gema include Gemma . Each spelling variation gives the name a slightly different character while preserving its sound and meaning.