The provided sources detail a series of Disney Princess birthstone pins released between 2003 and 2006. While not a comprehensive gemological treatise, the discussion surrounding these pins offers insights into perceptions of aquamarine and London Blue topaz, specifically as they relate to color variations and collector observations. This article will explore the details of this collection, focusing on the gemstones represented – particularly the aquamarine and its perceived differences – and the questions raised by collectors regarding consistency in color and production dates.
Origins of the Disney Princess Birthstone Series
The Disney Princess Premiere Birthstone Series was initially released around 2003, featuring pins representing each princess associated with her corresponding birth month and gemstone. The series was available at Walt Disney World (WDW) and Disneyland Resort Paris (DLRP). A key point raised by collectors is the presence of pins with different year stamps (2004, 2005, 2006) despite the initial release date of 2003. This suggests the pins were likely open editions, continuously produced and released over several years. The open-edition nature explains the varying date stamps observed on the back of the pins.
Collector Observations and Gemstone Color
A significant portion of the discussion centers around the color of the gemstone used for the Alice (March) pin. The collector notes that the gemstone appears darker than a typical aquamarine, resembling a London Blue topaz instead. This observation highlights a potential inconsistency in the gemstones used or a variation in the treatment applied to the stones. The collector further contrasts this with the Cinderella (dated 2003) pin, whose gemstone more closely resembles a traditional aquamarine in color. This comparison suggests that either the source of the aquamarine varied over the production period, or different treatments were employed to achieve different shades of blue.
The Aquamarine and London Blue Topaz Distinction
The collector’s observation regarding the Alice pin raises an important distinction between aquamarine and London Blue topaz. While both are blue gemstones, they possess different chemical compositions and optical properties. Aquamarine is a variety of beryl (beryllium aluminum silicate), while London Blue topaz is a topaz that has undergone irradiation and heat treatment to achieve its deep blue hue. The sources do not provide details on the actual gemstones used in the pins, but the collector’s observation suggests a possible substitution or variation in color treatment.
Esmeralda’s Pin and Rarity
Another point of discussion revolves around the Esmeralda (May) pin, which is noted as being particularly difficult to find. The reason for this scarcity is not explicitly stated in the provided sources, but it could be attributed to a lower production run, higher demand, or a combination of both. The difficulty in locating this pin contributes to its desirability among collectors.
Production Timeline and Open Editions
The sources confirm that the Disney Princess birthstone pins were initially released in 2003. However, the presence of pins dated 2004, 2005, and 2006 indicates that the series was likely produced as an open edition over several years. Open editions are not limited to a specific production run, allowing for continuous production based on demand. This practice explains the varying date stamps observed on the pins and suggests that Disney continued to produce the series based on its popularity.
Limited Gemological Information
It is important to acknowledge that the provided sources offer limited gemological information. They do not detail the cut, clarity, or carat weight of the gemstones used in the pins. The discussion focuses primarily on color variations and production dates, offering insights into collector perceptions rather than a detailed gemological analysis. The sources do not provide information on the origin of the gemstones or the specific treatments applied to enhance their color.
The Significance of Birthstones
While the sources do not delve into the historical significance of birthstones, it is worth noting that the association of gemstones with specific birth months dates back centuries. The tradition is believed to have originated in ancient times, with different cultures attributing specific powers and meanings to various gemstones. The Disney Princess birthstone series taps into this tradition, associating each princess with a gemstone believed to represent her personality or story.
Collector Community and Pin Trading
The discussion originates from an online pin forum, highlighting the active collector community surrounding Disney pins. Pin trading is a popular hobby among Disney enthusiasts, and the Disney Princess birthstone series is a sought-after collection. The forum provides a platform for collectors to share information, ask questions, and discuss their finds. The questions raised about the Alice pin and the Esmeralda pin demonstrate the collectors’ attention to detail and their desire to understand the nuances of the series.
Potential for Further Research
The limited scope of the provided sources suggests that further research could provide a more comprehensive understanding of the Disney Princess birthstone series. Investigating Disney’s production records, interviewing designers involved in the series, and conducting a gemological analysis of the pins could reveal valuable insights into the gemstones used, the production process, and the reasons for any inconsistencies observed.
Conclusion
The Disney Princess Premiere Birthstone Series, while a relatively recent creation (circa 2003-2006), has generated considerable interest among collectors. The discussion surrounding the series, as documented in the provided sources, highlights the importance of color consistency and the challenges of identifying gemstones based on visual appearance alone. The observation regarding the Alice pin and its resemblance to London Blue topaz raises questions about the gemstones used and the treatments applied. The scarcity of the Esmeralda pin adds to its allure, while the open-edition production timeline explains the varying date stamps observed on the pins. While the sources offer limited gemological detail, they provide a valuable glimpse into the world of Disney pin collecting and the discerning eye of its enthusiasts.