Rising since 1985, #1,990 for girls today.
Popularity of Gema since 1959
Babies named Gema per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1950s | 12 |
| 1960s | 61 |
| 1970s | 101 |
| 1980s | 184 |
| 1990s | 612 |
| 2000s | 681 |
| 2010s | 637 |
| 2020s | 631 |
Meaning & origin
Gema entered U.S. records in 1959, but it was not until the late 20th century that it began to see significant use. In 1990, it ranked 1990th, with approximately 1 in 16,742 newborn girls receiving the name. Its popularity has been rising steadily since 1985, peaking in 2022. The name is especially common in Colorado, Indiana, and Florida, reflecting its appeal in states with sizable Hispanic populations. As a Spanish and Italian variant of Gemma, Gema carries the meaning of 'precious stone', a straightforward and elegant choice that has grown in favor among families seeking a name with European roots but a familiar sound.
Gema is the Spanish, Italian, and Portuguese form of Gemma, ultimately derived from the Latin gemma, meaning 'precious stone' or 'jewel'. It has been in use as a given name since the Middle Ages, particularly in Catholic cultures where it was sometimes associated with the Virgin Mary as the 'precious jewel' of God. The name gained modern popularity in Spain and Latin America.
Where Gema is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Gemi, Mimi
Sibling names for Gema
Names that share Gema's style, for a brother or sister.
