The emerald in the history of the Spanish conquest
The emerald, one of the most coveted and appreciated gems in history, has a fascinating role in the history of the Spanish conquest in America. This precious mineral not only captivated the conquerors with its beauty but also played a crucial role in the economic and cultural dynamics of the time. Then we will explore the journey of Colombian emeralds from their discovery to their impact during the Spanish conquest.
Colombian Emerald Time Line
Pre-Colombino: The Worship to the Emeralds
- 500 BC. 1500 A.D.: Emeralds were valued by indigenous civilizations in what is now Colombia. The Muiscas, in particular, regarded emeralds as sacred symbols of life and fertility. The gem was believed to have mystical powers and was used in religious ceremonies.
15th century: European Discovery
- 1499 - 1500 . . Spanish explorers, such as Alonso de Ojeda, are beginning to hear rumors about the existence of emeralds in Colombian territory. Although their first expeditions did not result in great findings, interest in emeralds was fueled.
Beginning of the 16th century: First Encounters
- 1520 - 1530 : Hernán Cortés and other Spanish conquerors learn about Colombia's mineral wealth through the stories of the indigenous people. The first emeralds are brought to Europe, where the demand for these precious stones begins to grow exponentially.
History of the Emeralds During the Conquest
Discovery and Exploration
- 1537 : Gonzalo Jiménez de Quesada leads an expedition to the interior of Colombia and meets Muisca territory, famous for its emerald mines. The region's impressive emerald wealth deeply impacts the conquerors.
- 1538 - 1540 : The Spaniards establish the city of Santa Fe de Bogotá, and the emerald mines become a crucial source of wealth for the Spanish crown. Conquerors explore and exploit mines fervently, sending large amounts of emeralds to Europe.
Trade and Influence in Europe
- 1540 - 1600: Colombian emeralds begin to circulate through the European market, becoming a symbol of status and wealth. They become key pieces in the jewelry of the time, adorning crowns, necklaces and other ornaments of the European nobility.
- 1600 - 1700 : The popularity of Colombian emeralds does not diminish. As new mines are explored and more efficient extraction techniques are discovered, emeralds continue to be a precious asset in both Europe and Spanish colonies.
Emeralds in Jewelry During the Conquest
During the period of the conquest, emeralds were significantly integrated into European jewelry and ornaments. The conquerors and the Spanish nobility, fascinated by the beauty and brightness of these gems, incorporated them into a variety of ornamental pieces. Some of the highlights included:
- Necklaces and throats: The emeralds were hooked on elaborate necklaces and throats that demonstrated the power and wealth of their owners.
- Crowns and Tiara: The emeralds adorned the crowns and tiaras of European royalty, highlighting their status on the court.
- Rings and brooches: The emeralds were mounted on rings and brooches, becoming symbols of prestige and elegance.
The arrival of Colombian emeralds in Europe not only enriched the conquerors, but also influenced the fashion and jewelry design of the time. These precious minerals became synonymous with luxury and sophistication, leaving an indelible brand in the history of jewelry.
Paula A. Bonilla
Social communicator and journalist from the Sergio Arboleda University, Colombia. Joyera and passionate about constantly learning about the gorgeous gems and the national high jewelry.
He is currently working for one of the most important jewelry stores in Bogotá, Emerald by Love. A Jewelry with more than 40 years of experience and also has 2 physical headquarters in the capital city of Colombia, located in the center of the city, and two more headquarters in China and the USA.
