Smithsonian National Gem Collection
The Stories behind the Jewels with Jeffrey Post
The United States National Gem Collection at the Smithsonian Institution is well-known for its many world-class gems and jewelry pieces including the spectacular and mysterious Hope Diamond, Polly Logan’s 423 carat sapphire, the historic Napoleon Diamond Necklace, and the magnificent Carmen Lúcia Ruby.
This beautifully illustrated talk by the Curator-in-charge, Dr. Jeffrey Post, will explore the stories behind some of the famous and lesser known gems in the National Collection, as well as highlight some exciting recent additions to the collection.
This event is a collaboration with the AGS and GIA.
Whitney Alexandrite
These significant gifts join the unique 17.08 carat, color-changing Whitney Alexandrite from Coralyn Wright Whitney that was added to the collection earlier this year. The extraordinary alexandrite is on view in the National Gem Gallery, where it has become a favorite of the Smithsonian museum visitors.