Zambian emeralds take centre stage at the Golden Globes

A Zambian emerald from the Kagem Mine in Lufwanyama took centre stage at the Golden Globe awards in Hollywood this year.

Oscar winner Mahershala Ali (pictured) took home the Golden Globe for Best Supporting Actor for his role in the aptly titled American comedy-drama film Green Book, and in keeping with the green theme, the actor accepted his award wearing a Zambian emerald signet-style ring designed by jeweller Kimberly McDonald and featuring an emerald mined at Kagem.

Zambian emeralds are now the must-have gemstones on red carpets everywhere, since fine emeralds have taken on renewed popularity thanks to their promotion by London-based Gemfields, which owns 75 percent of Kagem in a model partnership with the Zambian government, which owns 25 percent.

Mahershala’s striking Kagem emerald appeared on the red carpet, awards stage and at after-parties, as he celebrated his win in style, and emeralds also adorned several Hollywood’s notable stars at the 76th Golden Globe Awards, launching the 2019 awards season, hosted by Sandra Oh and Andy Sandberg.

A number of A-list actresses championed colour on the carpet, and earrings were the jewellery item of choice with statement, chandelier style options dominating.

Catherine Zeta-Jones, Saoirse Ronan, Jodie Comer, Octavia Spencer all chose emeralds; Patricia Clarkson and Nicole Kidman matched the red carpet in rubies and Jessica Chastain went all-out in a multi-coloured style.

Other nods to colour came in the shape of rings, with Catherine Zeta-Jones and Octavia Spencer teaming their earrings with complementing emerald rings, whilst South African actress Charlize Theron chose an emerald ring against a backdrop of diamonds. Jessica Chastain chose a ruby ring to pair with her multi-coloured earrings and other multi-coloured confections included Julianne Moore’s bracelet and Allison Janney’s necklace.

This year’s Golden Globes colour followed similar excitement in 2016 when best actress winner Taraji P. Henson selected Kimberly McDonald earrings set with Kagem Zambian emeralds to attend the 73rd Annual Golden Globe Awards.