Meaning & Origin
A female given name from Italian, a spelling variant of Gemma; by folk etymology also used as a feminine form of James/Jem.
Jemma is a girl's baby name of Italian origin, a spelling variant of Gemma, from the Italian gemma meaning 'gem,' 'precious stone,' or 'jewel.' Gemma was a popular name in medieval Italy — Dante Alighieri's wife was named Gemma Donati.
The Jemma spelling gives this Italian gemstone name a slightly more anglicized look while preserving its jeweled meaning. It has a warm, friendly feel — two syllables that feel immediately approachable without sacrificing any of Gemma's Mediterranean beauty. Currently gaining ground alongside Gemma in the vintage gem-name revival.