Colombian emeralds are renowned worldwide for their unparalleled beauty and quality. They are not only a symbol of luxury and sophistication, but are also an integral part of Colombia's national heritage.

In this article, we will explore the rich history of Colombia's oldest emeralds, and highlight ten Colombian emerald jewelry pieces that are considered national heritage, describing their characteristics, origin, and current location.

The Oldest Emeralds in Colombia

Colombian emeralds have fascinated the world for centuries. Their vibrant green color and exceptional purity have made them highly coveted gems since pre-Columbian times. The ancient Muiscas already considered these precious stones a symbol of power and spirituality. With the arrival of the Spanish conquistadors, Colombian emeralds began to travel the world, adorning the jewels of royalty and the most influential figures in history. Today, many of these jewels are considered national heritage, preserving Colombia's cultural and mineralogical heritage.

The oldest Colombian emeralds date back to pre-Columbian times, when the Muisca mined and traded them. The Muzo region, known as the emerald capital of the world, has been the source of the most famous and oldest emeralds. These precious stones not only adorned the Muisca leaders, but were also used in religious rituals and as offerings to the gods.

10 Jewels with Colombian Emeralds that are National Heritage

- The Crown of the Andes
Features: This crown is adorned with 453 emeralds, including the famous 24-carat “Atahualpa” emerald.
Origin: It was created in the 16th century by colonial goldsmiths.
Current Location: Located in the Bank of the Republic of Colombia, Bogotá.

- The Necklace of Queen Elizabeth II
Features: A necklace with Colombian emeralds and diamonds, given to Queen Elizabeth II by the President of Colombia.
Origin: 20th century.
Current Location: Private collection of the British royal family.

- Cleopatra's Ring
Features: A ring with a 12-carat emerald that, according to legend, belonged to Cleopatra.
Origin: It is believed to be one of the first emeralds exported from Colombia.
Current Location: Gold Museum, Bogotá.

- The Diadem of Empress Eugénie
Characteristics: A tiara with emeralds and diamonds, worn by Empress Eugenie of France.
Origin: 19th century.
Current Location: Louvre Museum, Paris.

- The Brooch of Tsarina Catherine the Great
Features: A brooch with a 25-carat central emerald, surrounded by diamonds.
Origin: 18th century.
Current Location: Hermitage Museum, St. Petersburg.

- Queen Victoria's Tiara
Characteristics: A tiara with emeralds and diamonds, worn by Queen Victoria of England.
Origin: 19th century.
Current Location: Private collection of the British royal family.

- The Scepter of Emperor Moctezuma
Features: A ceremonial scepter with an 18-carat emerald.
Origin: 16th century.
Current Location: National Museum of Anthropology, Mexico City.

- Princess Diana's Ring
Features: A ring with a Colombian emerald and diamonds.
Origin: 20th century.
Current Location: Private collection of the British royal family.

- The Necklace of Empress Joséphine
Characteristics: A necklace with emeralds and diamonds, worn by Empress Joséphine of France.
Origin: 19th century.
Current Location: Louvre Museum, Paris.

- The Emerald Cross of the Muiscas
Features: A cross made entirely of emeralds.
Origin: Pre-Columbian period.
Current Location: Gold Museum, Bogotá.

Paula A. Bonilla

Social communicator and journalist from Sergio Arboleda University, Colombia. Jeweler and passionate about constantly learning about precious gems and national fine jewelry. 

She is currently working for one of the most important jewelry stores in Bogotá,  Emerald by Love.  

A jewelry store with more than 40 years of experience and which also has 2 physical locations in the capital city of Colombia, located in the city center.