The Emeralds of Napoleon III: A Royal Gemstone Mystery Uncovered
- Samuel Cini
- Aug 13, 2025
- 3 min read
What do emeralds fit for an emperor have in common with the gems you can wear today?
As it turns out quite a lot. In 2022, gem experts took a closer look at green gemstones once set in the crown of Napoleon III, France’s last emperor. What they discovered blended royal history, gemstone beauty, and a few surprises.
Here’s a fascinating look into what they found and why it matters for today’s gem lovers and collectors.
A Crown Full of Secrets
In 1855, when Napoleon III was crowned Emperor of France, his coronation crown sparkled with gold, diamonds, and rich green “emeralds.” After the fall of the empire, the French government sold off much of the royal jewellery but a few of the stones, including 45 green gems from the crown, were preserved in a French museum.
More than 150 years later, gemologists finally got the chance to study them up close and the results were surprising.
The Big Reveal: Not All Emeralds Are What They Seem
Most of the crown’s green stones turned out to be real emeralds, likely from Colombia, which has been a top emerald source for centuries. These gems had all the hallmarks of natural beauty internal features that form only in nature, rich green colour, and no signs of modern treatment or enhancement.
But a few stones weren’t emeralds at all they were green glass imitations! These fakes may have been added to the crown long ago, perhaps as replacements or to reduce the crown’s value during political upheaval. Either way, it was a reminder that not every green gem is a real emerald even in a royal crown.
Why This Story Matters Today
While few of us will ever wear a crown, the lessons from Napoleon III’s jewels still apply:
Natural Beauty Matters
The emeralds in Napoleon’s crown were never treated or enhanced. That kind of untouched quality is rare and increasingly sought after. At Rosetti Gems Antwerp, we carry emeralds and gemstones selected for their natural brilliance and integrity.
Not Everything Shines the Same
Just like the crown held both genuine emeralds and imitations, the gem market today is full of lookalikes. That’s why we emphasise authenticity, expert sourcing, and full disclosure so you always know what you're buying.
Every Gem Has a Story
Gemstones aren’t just pretty they’re time travellers. Like the emeralds that survived empires and revolutions, the gems you wear today can become part of your own story, handed down for generations.
Shop Emeralds With a Legacy
Inspired by Napoleon III’s crown? Browse our handpicked emerald collection from rich Colombian greens to untreated stones with character and charm. Whether you're choosing a one of a kind piece or a classic everyday gem, you’ll be wearing something that reflects centuries of beauty and history.
Did You Know?
In 1887, the French government auctioned off the crown jewels to discourage a return to monarchy.
A few pieces were saved not for royalty, but for science.
The emeralds studied in 2022 had never left France since the 19th century.
