Anticipation builds as the sky turns grey-and finally releases the season’s first snowfall. A cascade of crystalline stars drifts down to earth in the hush of winter’s still crisp air; it will take a million of them to cover 60 square centimetres of ground with 25 cm of snow. Snowflakes are born high in the atmosphere. They start out as tiny molecules of water vapour that freeze around particles in the air. As they fall, they stick to each other and grow larger, shaped by the wind, moisture and temperature. Each snowflake follows a different path and is affected by the elements in different ways. As a result, no two snowflakes are exactly alike-each one boasts a beauty and design all its own. This stunning coin captures the sparkle and allure of one of nature’s most transient beauties, freezing it in time for you to enjoy all year round. Delicate snowflakes reveal the infinite diversity of crystalline sculptures that fill the air during a snowfall. An emerald Swarovski Element marks the heart of the gorgeous snowflake design, its six delicate arms studded with clear oblong Swarovski Elements. The obverse features the effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II by Susanna Blunt. The Silver Coin comes encapsulated in Royal Canadian Mint maroon clamshell case, black box and Certificate of Authenticity. Product by: Royal Canadian Mint.