Queen Elizabeth II was known for her extensive and meaningful jewelry collection, and among her most significant pieces was the Snowflake Brooch, a dazzling emblem of Canada’s rich heritage. This brooch was a gift from Canada to Her Majesty and later became the inspiration for a stunning Canadian coin, further solidifying its historical and cultural importance.
The History of the Snowflake Brooch
The Snowflake Brooch was a special gift from Canada to Queen Elizabeth II, presented by then-Governor General David Johnston. He personally offered the brooch to Her Majesty during her visit to Canada House in London, that coincided with both the 150th anniversary of Canada's Confederation and the Queen’s Sapphire Jubilee. The brooch itself, crafted from Canadian diamonds, is a tribute to the country’s natural beauty and its strong ties to the British monarchy.
Queen Elizabeth II frequently wore the Snowflake Brooch on important occasions, showcasing her appreciation for Canada and its people. By immortalizing this brooch on a coin, Canada has ensured that future generations can continue to admire and appreciate this exquisite piece of history.
The Design of the Snowflake Brooch
The Snowflake Brooch was produced using Canadian materials by the jewelry firm Hillberg & Berk. It features a breathtaking arrangement of 48 sapphires and 400 diamonds in a snowflake-inspired design, all set in white gold. The sapphires, known as rare Canadian Beluga sapphires, add a deep and mesmerizing blue hue to the brooch, enhancing its brilliance. The snowflake motif was chosen to represent Canada’s winters, symbolizing the purity and beauty of the nation’s natural landscapes.
The Snowflake Brooch on a Canadian Coin
Recognizing the significance of the Snowflake Brooch, the Royal Canadian Mint decided to honor it by featuring its design on a limited-edition coin. This coin was created as a tribute to Queen Elizabeth II’s long reign and her strong connection to Canada. The intricate detailing of the brooch was meticulously replicated on the coin, ensuring that its beauty and meaning were preserved in a new and timeless form.
The 99.99% silver coin, minted in 2024, features rhodium-plated embellishments and royal blue glass stones, which provide an affordable yet luxurious alternative to the precious sapphires in the original brooch. The obverse side of the coin showcases a portrait of King Charles III, marking a transition in the monarchy while honoring Queen Elizabeth II’s legacy. This limited-edition Snowflake Brooch coin has a production run of 6,500 pieces and remains available for purchase at $164.95 CAD.
The Craftsmanship Behind the Coin
To accurately reflect the brilliance of the Snowflake Brooch, the coin incorporates meticulously crafted cast elements resembling engraved jewels. The use of royal blue glass stones mirrors the deep sapphire hues of the original brooch, providing a refined and elegant aesthetic. Additionally, rhodium plating has been applied to highlight the intricacy of the brooch’s design, ensuring that its complexity and delicate craftsmanship are fully represented.
A Legacy in Jewelry and Numismatics
Whether in diamonds or on a coin, the Snowflake Brooch remains one of the most cherished symbols of Queen Elizabeth II’s enduring connection to Canada. The coin, much like the brooch itself, stands as a tribute to a beloved monarch and the enduring relationship between Canada and the British Crown.
