La Lechuga: A Religious Monstrance with 1,485 Colombian Emeralds
Among the historical treasures that affirm the legacy of Colombian emeralds is La Lechuga, a religious monstrance that dazzles with spiritual majesty. This object is not only a priceless work of goldsmithing but also a symbol of colonial splendor.
In this article, you’ll discover what La Lechuga is, its history, unique characteristics, and why it holds such significance for Colombia’s cultural heritage. You’ll also learn how Emerald By Love continues this legacy by creating exclusive jewelry with 100% Colombian emeralds.
What is La Lechuga?
La Lechuga is an 18th-century religious monstrance used in Catholic ceremonies to display the consecrated host. Its popular name, “The Lettuce,” comes from the intense green hue given by the 1,485 Colombian emeralds embedded in its structure, evoking the freshness of the vegetable that inspired its nickname.
More than a liturgical object, La Lechuga is considered a true jewel of colonial baroque art, as it combines goldsmithing, religious symbolism, and precious stones, making it one of the most valuable pieces in all of Latin America.
History of La Lechuga
This masterpiece was created between 1700 and 1707 by Spanish goldsmith José de Galaz, who dedicated seven years to crafting this extraordinary monstrance. Commissioned by the Jesuits of Bogotá, it quickly became an icon of the Church's power and colonial splendor.
Over the centuries, La Lechuga survived conflicts, looting, and the expulsion of the Jesuits in 1767. Today, it remains a symbol of Colombia’s spiritual and cultural wealth and stands as testimony to the use of Colombian emeralds since colonial times.
Features of La Lechuga
The piece is remarkable for its quality materials and exquisite craftsmanship:
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1,485 Colombian emeralds of high purity and intense green color
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62 rubies, 28 diamonds, 168 amethysts, and additional emeralds of various sizes
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18K gold base and structure
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Baroque design representing the Tree of Life, with gem-filled branches and leaves
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Approximately 45 cm in height and weighing over 4 kilograms
Why Is It So Important to Colombia?
La Lechuga is not only a religious treasure but also a cultural and historical heritage that reflects the greatness of colonial art and the global significance of Colombian emeralds. Its beauty makes it one of the most admired pieces of universal goldsmithing.
It has also become a symbol of national identity, reminding Colombians and the world that our emeralds are the most prestigious on the planet, capable of creating timeless works of art.
Where Is La Lechuga Today?
Today, La Lechuga is preserved at the Museum of Colonial Art and the Church of San Ignacio Museum in Bogotá under strict security measures. It is one of the most visited pieces by both local and international tourists who wish to admire this treasure up close.
Its exhibition not only strengthens cultural pride but also positions Colombia as a country of emerald and religious tradition, where art and gems intertwine in a legacy like no other.
Emerald By Love: Heirs to the Emerald Legacy
Just as La Lechuga preserves the story of Colombian emeralds, at Emerald By Love we believe in keeping that legacy alive. We are a jewelry brand that works exclusively with certified Colombian emeralds, offering exceptional quality pieces with modern designs that reflect the same splendor and authenticity that made our precious stones world-famous.
Explore our collections and fall in love with the magic of Colombian emeralds—a timeless treasure you can now wear with pride.
Paula A. Bonilla
Social communicator and journalist from Sergio Arboleda University in Colombia. Passionate about continuously learning about precious gems and high-end national jewelry. She currently works for one of Bogotá’s most renowned jewelry houses, Emerald by Love. This jeweler boasts over 40 years of expertise in emeralds and operates two physical locations in the heart of Colombia’s capital.
