The World's Largest Aquamarine Gem

The Dom Pedro is the largest cut and polished aquamarine in the world, weighing a whopping 10,363 carats (over 4.6 pounds!). 

The Dom Pedro aquamarine is the world's largest cut aquamarine gem. It was cut from a crystal originally weighing approximately 100 pounds (45 kg) and measuring more than 3 feet (0.91 m) in length. 

The Dom Pedro aquamarine was mined in Pedra Azul, in the state of Minas Gerais in Brazil around 1980. The gem was named after Dom Pedro I and Dom Pedro II, the first and last emperors of Brazil, respectively. This name honors the country where the magnificent crystal was discovered.

 The 100-pound piece landed in the hands of renowned German gem artist Bernd Munsteiner. He spent four months studying the crystal and meticulously carving it into the stunning obelisk shape it now boasts.

The finished dimensions measure 14 inches (36 cm) tall by 4 inches (10 cm) wide. The jewel was donated to the Smithsonian Institution by Jane Mitchell and Jeffery Bland. It is housed in the National Museum of Natural History's Janet Annenberg Hooker Hall of Geology.

The World's Largest Aquamarine Gem. The Dom Pedro aquamarine obelisk by gem sculptor Bernd Munsteiner

The Dom Pedro aquamarine is a popular tourist attraction at the Smithsonian Institution. It is displayed in the Janet Annenberg Hooker Hall of Geology, Gems, and Minerals. The gem is a reminder of the beauty and wonder of the natural world, and it is a testament to the skill and artistry of gem cutters.

  

Dom Pedro aquamarine before and after cut

Facts about the Dom Pedro aquamarine:

• It is the largest cut aquamarine gem in the world.
• It was named after the Brazilian emperors Pedro I and Pedro II.
• It was cut by Bernd Munsteiner.
• It weighs 10,363 carats.
• It measures 14 inches (36 cm) tall by 4 inches (10 cm) wide.