The given name Aurelia originated from ancient Rome, derived from the Latin word 'aureus' meaning 'golden.' It was a popular name among the Roman aristocracy, often given to girls born into affluent families. The name's connection to gold signified wealth, prosperity, and radiance.

During the Roman Empire, the name Aurelia was borne by several notable individuals. One of the earliest recorded examples was Aurelia Cotta, a Roman matron from the 1st century BC who was the mother of Julius Caesar. Another prominent Aurelia was Aurelia Paulina, the second wife of the Roman emperor Caligula in the 1st century AD.

In the 3rd century AD, Aurelia Severa was the wife of the Roman emperor Aurelian, known for her influence and political involvement during her husband's reign. The name also appeared in early Christian texts, such as the martyrology of Aurelia of Regensburg, a 7th-century saint venerated in Bavaria.

Throughout the Middle Ages and Renaissance, the name Aurelia maintained its popularity across Europe, particularly in Italy and France. Aurelia Petrucci was an Italian noblewoman and patron of the arts in the 15th century, while Aurelia de Narbonne was a French courtier and lady-in-waiting to Queen Catherine de' Medici in the 16th century.

In the 19th century, Aurelia Clavering Lamerie was an English writer and translator, best known for her work on the lives of female saints. Aurelia Reinhardt was a Swiss-American author and activist in the late 19th century, advocating for women's rights and social reform.

More recently, Aurelia Dobre was a Romanian soprano who achieved international fame in the mid-20th century for her performances in operas by composers such as Verdi and Puccini. Aurelia Plath was an American academic and mother of the renowned poet Sylvia Plath, born in 1906.