Article: The History of Emeralds in European Jewelry

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Mar 28, 2025colombian

The History of Emeralds in European Jewelry

In Europe, Colombian emeralds have been symbols of power, wealth, and elegance since the Middle Ages. Kings, emperors, and aristocrats have adorned their jewelry with emeralds, mostly sourced from Colombia.

But how did emeralds arrive in Europe, and which are the most famous ones? In this article, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about the arrival of these emeralds on the European continent.

How Did Emeralds Arrive in Europe?

Emeralds were known in the ancient world, but it wasn't until the conquest of the Americas that Europe began receiving emeralds of exceptional quality. In the 16th century, Spanish conquistadors discovered emerald deposits in Colombia, particularly in Muzo and Chivor, which remain the sources of the most coveted emeralds in the world today.

These precious stones were transported to Spain and then distributed across Europe, where they became highly sought-after jewels among royalty and nobility.

Timeline of Emeralds in Europe

Ancient Age: Egypt and Rome already used emeralds, though they were of lower quality compared to Colombian ones.
16th Century: The conquest of the Americas; the Spanish bring Colombian emeralds to Europe.
17th Century: Emeralds become popular in European courts; Louis XIV of France and other monarchs wear emeralds in their jewelry.
18th-19th Century: The European aristocracy incorporates emeralds into tiaras, necklaces, and brooches.
20th-21st Century: Emeralds remain prominent in high jewelry and luxury auctions.

Famous Emeralds in Europe

Over the centuries, several emeralds have gained fame in Europe due to their history and value. Some of the most iconic include:

1. The Devonshire Emerald (United Kingdom)

One of the largest uncut emeralds in the world, weighing 1,383.95 carats.
Originates from Colombia and was acquired in the 19th century by the Duke of Devonshire.
Housed in the Natural History Museum of London.

2. The Chalk Emerald (United Kingdom, now in the U.S.)

Originally part of a tiara belonging to an Indian Maharani.
A 37.8-carat emerald of Colombian origin.
Though now in the Smithsonian Museum (U.S.), it passed through European collections.

3. The Romanov Emeralds (Russia, Eastern Europe)

A set of stunning emeralds owned by the Russian imperial family.
Many were looted after the Russian Revolution and scattered across Europe.

4. The Gachalá Emerald (Spain, now in the U.S.)

Discovered in Colombia in 1967, weighing 858 carats.
Donated to the Smithsonian, but it is believed to have passed through Spain before arriving there.

5. The Spanish Crown Emeralds (Spain)

Mostly from Colombia, they have adorned royal jewelry since the 16th century.
Many are part of the Treasure of the Dolphin, exhibited at the Prado Museum.

6. The Emeralds of the House of Austria (Austria and Spain)

Belonged to the Habsburg dynasty, which ruled much of Europe.
Several are preserved in museums and private collections.

7. Queen Elizabeth II’s Emerald Tiara (United Kingdom)

An iconic design featuring emeralds dating back to the 19th century.
Worn by the Queen on various official occasions.

8. The Medici Emeralds (Italy)

Belonged to the powerful Medici family of Florence.
Some of them can still be seen in Italian museums.

Emerald By Love: We Ship Throughout Europe with the Best Quality and Prices

At Emerald By Love, we specialize in offering natural emeralds of the highest quality, sourced directly from Colombia. With shipping available across Europe, we guarantee certified precious stones at the best market prices. If you're looking for a unique emerald for a special piece of jewelry, we are your best choice.

Paula A. Bonilla
Social communicator and journalist from Sergio Arboleda University in Colombia. She is also a jeweler and has a passion for constantly learning about precious gems and high-end jewelry.

She currently works for one of Bogotá’s most important jewelry stores, Emerald By Love, a company with over 40 years of experience and two physical stores in Colombia’s capital, located in the city center.