What is the famous Rockefeller Emerald?
The story of the Emerald Rockefeller is a fascinating journey through time and space, which takes us from Colombia's mysterious mines to the opulent life of one of the most influential families in the United States.
This precious stone of an intense green has captivated the imagination of collectors, gemologists and natural beauty lovers for generations. In this article, we will explore the origin, meaning and cultural impact of the Emerald Rockefeller, whose rarity and value make it an invaluable treasure.
The emerald and its origin
The Emerald Rockefeller is a rectangular emerald, roughly 37.8 carat, known for its exceptional deep green color and unmatched glow.
Its history dates back to the mines of Muzo, in the Boyacá region of Colombia, famous for producing some of the most beautiful emeralds in the world. The gem is believed to have been discovered in the 1920s, and its exceptional color and clarity immediately highlighted it as a unique gemstone of its kind.
In 1930, John D. Rockefeller, Jr. bought through a private owner a brooch for his wife, Abby Aldrich Rockefeller. The brooch, which is said to be from Van Clef & Arpels, focused on a large emerald with a fascinating color and impeccable clarity.
The Rockefeller family and their relationship with the emerald
When Abby Aldrich Rockefeller died in 1948, Rockefeller turned to Yard to disassemble the brooch. Individual emeralds of the environment were distributed to Rockefeller children. The central emerald, weighing 18.04 carats, was delivered to David Rockefeller.
Entrusting Raymond Yard with this stunning gemstone, Rockefeller asked Yard to ride the emerald in a ring. Made with an elegant and discreet diamond and platinum set, the ring was one of Raymond Yard's most important private commissions.
The intense color and distinctive saturation that characterizes a Colombian emerald are perfectly illustrated in this remarkable stone. Described by the American Gemological Laboratories as exceptional, it has what AGL calls an unusual combination of size, provenance, lack of treatment and quality factors [that contribute favorably to your rarity and desire).
The Emerald in the Public Area
The fame of the Rockefeller Emerald transcended the family's private circles and became a public icon. The gem was exhibited on several occasions at charity events and samples of gems and minerals, allowing the general public to have a glimpse of this natural wonder.
The public visibility of the Emerald also attracted the attention of expert gemologists and collectors, who were marveled at the rarity and quality of this precious stone. Its participation in exhibitions and auctions also helped consolidate its position as one of the most famous and valuable emeralds in the world.
The cultural significance of the Emerald Rockefeller
Beyond its material value, the Emerald Rockefeller acquired an important cultural significance. It became a symbol of power, wealth and prestige associated with the Rockefeller family, one of the most influential dynasties in U.S. history. The gemstone also symbolizes natural beauty and rarity, as it is extremely unusual to find emeralds of this quality and size.
In addition, the stone has been mentioned and referenced in numerous works of literature and art, which makes it an emblematic figure in popular culture. Writers, poets and artists have been captivated by the emerald, which has contributed to its legend and the aura of mystery surrounding it.
The legacy of the Emerald Rockefeller
Although the Emerald Rockefeller remains the property of the family, his legacy transcends his physical possession. It has inspired generations of gem lovers and left an indelible mark on the history of jewelry and popular culture. In addition, it has been a source of inspiration for other jewelry and hate couture designs, and its influence remains on the fashion and luxury industry.
Over the years, the Emerald Rockefeller has been loaned for exhibitions at museums and special events, allowing a wider audience to appreciate its beauty and splendor. His presence at these exhibitions has helped educate people about the importance of precious stones and the art of jewelry.
Paula A. Bonilla
Social communicator and journalist from Sergio Arboleda University in Colombia. She is also a jeweler and is passionate about constantly learning about precious gems and national high jewelry.
Currently, she is working for one of Bogotá's most important jewelry stores, Emerald by Love. This jewelry store has over 40 years of experience and has 2 physical branches in the capital city of Colombia, located in the city center.
