Guinness Records, Awards, and Recognitions Related to Colombian Emeralds
For centuries, Colombia has been synonymous with the highest quality emeralds. In this context, Guinness World Records and various awards associated with Colombian emeralds highlight and reinforce the country's reputation as a global leader in these extraordinary gems.
Today, we will explore some of those records, awards, and recognitions that make Colombian emeralds so special—and how Emerald By Love connects people around the world with the most famous emeralds on Earth.
Colombian Emeralds: The Most Famous in the World
Colombian emeralds are distinguished by their deep green color, purity, and rich mining tradition. Regions like Muzo, Chivor, Gachalá, and Boyacá have produced some of the most admired stones globally.
This prestige is no coincidence—unique geological conditions, a mix of traditional and innovative extraction techniques, and an international market that values color, clarity, and size have positioned Colombia at the top of the emerald world.
Recognitions and Records of Colombian Emeralds
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RECORD – The most expensive emerald jewel ever sold at auction:
This record refers to an emerald and diamond brooch-pendant by BVLGARI, featuring a Colombian emerald. It sold for approximately USD $6,578,500 on December 13, 2011, at a Christie’s auction in New York. -
RECOGNITION – Gachalá Emerald:
A 858-carat emerald found in 1967 in the Gachalá mine, Cundinamarca. One of the largest uncut emeralds in the world, it was donated to the Smithsonian by Harry Winston. -
RECOGNITION – Duke of Devonshire Emerald:
Weighing 1,383.93 carats, uncut. Originating from the Muzo mine in Boyacá, this is one of the most famous uncut emeralds in the world. It is currently on loan from the Duke to the Natural History Museum in London. -
DISTINGUISHED – Chalk Emerald:
A 37.82-carat cut emerald from the Muzo mine in Colombia. This gem has been part of prestigious jewelry pieces and is now housed at the Smithsonian, surrounded by diamonds. -
MINING RECOGNITION – “La Pita” Mine:
A significant contemporary emerald-producing mine located in Maripí, Muzo, Boyacá. At times, it has accounted for over 80% of Colombia’s emerald output. -
RECOGNITION – Global Production and Leadership:
Colombia produces a very large portion of the world’s high-quality emeralds. Mines such as Muzo, Chivor, and Coscuez are renowned for their color intensity, transparency, purity, and their large contribution to the global supply of fine gemstones. -
DISTINGUISHED FOR ITS SIZE – “Lionis Viridis”:
A rough emerald of about 1,064 carats, recently discovered at the Muzo mine. It is considered one of the largest high-purity emeralds ever found in Colombia. -
RECOGNITION – Largest Emerald Set in a Ring Auctioned:
A ring featuring a 61.35-carat modified-square emerald was sold at Sotheby’s in New York for $4.6 million in 2023. Its color and origin make it an exceptional gem. -
DISTINGUISHED JEWEL – Emerald Tiara of Princess Katharina Henckel von Donnersmarck:
A record-value emerald jewelry piece featuring Colombian emeralds and diamonds, sold for USD $12.7 million at auction. -
RECOGNITION – Patricia Emerald:
A 632-carat uncut emerald discovered in Colombia, famous for its size and museum display.
Emerald By Love: Discover the World’s Most Famous Emeralds
If you truly wish to own or admire a gem with history, unmatched beauty, and authenticity, Emerald By Love is your gateway to the world of Colombian emeralds. Whether you're a collector, jeweler, investor, or simply an admirer, with us you can find the world’s most iconic emeralds.
Paula A. Bonilla
Social communicator and journalist from Sergio Arboleda University in Colombia. Passionate about constantly learning about precious gemstones and national high-end jewelry. She currently works for one of Bogotá’s leading jewelry houses, Emerald by Love. This jeweler has over 40 years of experience in emeralds and operates two physical stores in Colombia’s capital, located in the city center.
