Wow, I hadn’t checked this thread all weekend. Thanks so much for replies everyone! Yes, I did read it is a little out-dated in [name]England[/name] and [name]Ireland[/name] but the funny part is my own name is like that (while not being popular in the US). Seems like [name]Gemma[/name] is getting soooo popular but I bet it is just on this website and we will all be clear in real life! I hope at least.
@kitkat26, my husband totally thinks it’s a made-up name! I’m like, um no it has its roots in medieval [name]Italy[/name]! Can’t get more classic than that. He’s not that into it but he will go with it if I insist (which I may have to with this one)…unlike some of the choices I’ve thrown at him which just got a big fat NO ([name]Livia[/name] and [name]Calista[/name] in case anyone is curious : ))
I think [name]Gemma[/name] is lovely!
Yep, extremely dated in Australia. I knew a ton of Gemmas growing up, and I’m nearly 40.
Honestly, to me it doesn’t have a classy or posh vibe at all, and certainly not a bohemian or hip one! It’s more in the vein of [name]Tiffany[/name] or [name]Kristy[/name]. But that’s obviously a regional thing.
[name]Gemma[/name] has been popular and well used for several generations where I come from (the UK). It’s an interesting question as to why it was never nearly as popular in the US. It is an Italian name and a legitimate saint’s name at that. I have never had a particular fondness for it because, to be honest, there were a lot of Gemmas around when I was growing up. They are now my age 27-35. So I’m not sure if I can picture it on a younger child. It feels slightly dated from my perspective. But I can see how it could be seen fresh for those who aren’t familiar with it.
I’m a 20-something [name]Gemma[/name] in [name]Canada[/name], where it’s uncommon enough to not have the dated 80’s vibe it’s associated with in the UK. I get lots of positive compliments on my name, and if anyone tries to call me [name]Gem[/name] usually one correction is all it takes to let them know that that’s not a nickname I go by.
I love the name [name]Gemma[/name]! When my in laws rescued a dog, they let me choose the name and I named her [name]Gemma[/name]. I often call her [name]Gemma[/name] [name]Lou[/name], or [name]Gem[/name] [name]Gem[/name], or JuJu [name]Bean[/name].
It’s pretty. It’s a solid name for a little girl (the hard G sound makes it sound more substantial) It’s never been at the top of my list, but I think it is lovely.
I’m clearly in the minority here but I don’t like it at all. (Sorry to all those [name]Gemma[/name]'s and [name]Gemma[/name]-lovers!) I just don’t think it sounds very nice and to be honest it gives me the impression of being low-class. I do know a [name]Gemma[/name] in real life, she’s probably around 4 or so and her dad has actually called it a stripper name! It’s just not a name that I’ve ever cared for. I do love [name]Genevieve[/name] though!