What does Gema mean and where does it come from?
Gema is a feminine given name of Spanish origin, primarily used in Spain and Latin American countries. The name derives from the Spanish word 'gema,' which means 'gem' or 'precious stone.' It symbolizes beauty and rarity. Gema has been used since the late 19th century and continues to be popular in
Cultural significance
Gema has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Spain-speaking communities, where it reflects values of gem, precious stone.
Peak popularity
Reached #1590 in 1999 — currently #1690 in the US.
🌿
Related Reading
Spain-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Gema?
Gema works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Gema Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Gema Rose
Floral · soft ending
Gema Claire
French influence · crisp
Gema Jane
Literary · strong
Gema Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Gema right now?
Declining — down 14 spots — currently #1690 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1690 | 122 | ▼ down 14 · -2% births |
| 2022 | #1676 | 125 | ▲ up 446 · +40% births |
| 2021 | #2122 | 89 | ▲ up 69 · +9% births |
| 2020 | #2191 | 82 | ▲ up 241 · +9% births |
| 2015 | #2432 | 75 | ▲ up 352 · +19% births |
| 2010 | #2784 | 63 | ▼ down 22 · +5% births |
| 2005 | #2762 | 60 | ▼ down 412 · -9% births |
| 2000 | #2350 | 66 | ▼ down 656 · -24% births |
| 1995 | #1694 | 87 | ▲ up 1171 · +118% births |
| 1990 | #2865 | 40 | ▲ up 1076 · +90% births |
| 1985 | #3941 | 21 | ▲ up 300 · +17% births |
| 1980 | #4241 | 18 | ▲ up 2565 · +125% births |
| 1975 | #6806 | 8 | ▼ down 1841 · -27% births |
| 1970 | #4965 | 11 | ▼ down 784 |
| 1965 | #4181 | 11 | — |
The story of Gema
Gema entered American naming records in 1959 and has been in use for over 65 years. With 2,368 total births recorded, Gema remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #4181 in 1965 to #1690 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Gema in 1999:
Gema by decade
Gema peaked in the 1990s. See all 1990s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1950s | 12 | |
| 1960s | 61 | |
| 1970s | 101 | |
| 1980s | 184 | |
| 1990s | 611 | |
| 2000s ★ | 681 | |
| 2010s | 636 | |
| 2020s | 82 | |
💎With 2,368 total births, Gema is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Gema?
What names sound and feel like Gema?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Gema also consider these
How is Gema written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Gema
What does the name Gema mean?
Gema means "gem, precious stone" — a name rooted in Spain tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Gema?
Gema is currently a distinctive and less common name as a girl name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Gema have increased significantly in recent years.
What is the cultural origin of Gema?
Gema originates from Spain tradition. Spain names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
Is Gema trending right now?
Gema is currently on the rise — it has gained significant momentum in recent years as parents discover its appeal.
Is Gema a common or rare name?
Gema is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.