December is upon us, and as we explore and celebrate the December’s birthstones, this month we highlight Marie-Louise, the Duchess of Parma and Napoleon Bonaparte's second wife, famously owned turquoise and diamond crown. This crown is now regarded as one of the most iconic pieces of turquoise jewelry.

The Crown’s Design

This spectacular crown features a series of oval-shaped turquoise cabochons set in gold and framed by brilliant-cut diamonds, arranged in a design that radiates elegance and balance. The cabochons are interspersed with delicate diamond scrollwork, giving the crown an airy yet regal feel. The turquoise stones' vivid blue contrasts beautifully with the sparkling diamonds, making it a striking symbol of 19th-century European jewelry craftsmanship.

The Story Behind Empress Marie Louise Diadem

The turquoise crown was part of a larger parure (matching jewelry set) gifted to Marie-Louise by Napoleon upon their marriage in 1810. Napoleon, known for his grand gestures and love of opulent gifts, selected turquoise for its symbolic meanings of protection, healing, and love—a fitting choice for a bridal gift. One of the most famous pieces of turquoise jewelry is the "Golden Fleece Turquoise Necklace," which is part of the parure and featured turquoise cabochons surrounded by diamonds set in gold and silver, showcasing the luxurious use of turquoise in regal adornments during the early 19th century.

After Napoleon’s defeat and exile, Marie-Louise returned to her native Austria, taking the parure with her. It became a symbol of her resilience and ability to adapt to changing fortunes. Over time, these extraordinary pieces passed through generations of European royalty, solidifying their status as a piece of historical and artistic significance. Today, parts of the parure, including the crown and necklace, are displayed in prestigious collections, offering a glimpse into how turquoise was treasured by aristocracy and royalty, not just for its beauty but also for its symbolism of protection and prosperity. The story of the Golden Fleece Turquoise Necklace and crown highlights turquoise's enduring allure and its place in the narrative of power, love, and history.

Current Legacy

The turquoise crown, along with other pieces from Marie-Louise's parure, is now housed in the collection of the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C. It is admired not only for its beauty but also for its historical significance, symbolizing a period of European history marked by political upheaval, romance, and extraordinary artistry.

This crown remains a celebrated example of turquoise in fine jewelry and its role in royal adornment.