9 Famous Historic Diamonds

Ever since the first gem was discovered buried under the earth, man has always been attracted and allured by the treasured. Diamonds have among been the most alluring possessions across cultures and regions across the globe. Here are 15 diamonds that have made a mark in history, not just once but several times. Each one is a unique piece and will make your heart skip a beat. Further, each one has a story to tell.

Archduke DiamondArchduke Joseph Diamond
Made in one of the most ancient diamond mines in India, the Archduke Joseph is a treasured possession of the Golconda royalty. It measures an amazing 74.65 carats but what makes it unique is its clarity and color. The Archduke Joseph was originally the property of the Archduke Joseph of Alcsut and later came into possession of the Hapsburg Family of Hungary. The piece became popularly known after Celine Dion wore it in the historic performance of “A New Day Has Come”. This is a perfect rated D piece.

Centenary DiamondCentenary Diamond
The third largest diamond in the world, the Centenary measures a whopping 273.85 carats and rated a flawless D. previously, its uncut form measured 599 carats and was displayed on DeBeers Centenary Anniversary – hence the name too. Though the current whereabouts is unknown, it is believed that the DeBeers Company sold it to a private collected for more than 100 million dollars.

 

Cullian DiamondCullinan Diamond
The largest of diamonds ever discovered by man, the Cullinan measures 3,160 carats. It was originally gifted to the Edward VII, the king of United Kingdom. The stone, however was eventually cut into 11 separate pieces, but each being large enough. The largest piece is called the Cullinan I and the “Star of Africa”.

 

Deepened DiamondDeepdene Diamond
The Deepdene measured 104.88 carats when it was sold to Harry Winston by the Bok’s of Pennsylvania. The stone eventually found its way to Germany and appeared at an auction in 1971 at Christies. The gems yellow coloration makes it more valuable than its size. The current whereabouts of the piece is unknown.

 

Excelsior DiamondExcelsior Diamond
In 1893, when the Excelsior was discovered, it was the largest diamond measuring 971 carats. The stone is unique for its blue and white coloration. However, it was eventually cut into 13 smaller pieces that measured between 13 carats and 68 carats.

 

 

The Golden Jublee DiamondThe Golden Jubilee Diamond
Known to be the largest among faceted diamonds, the Golden Jubilee had been cut into fire cushion shape and weighed a whooping 545.67 carats. However, what’s more unique about this stone is the yellowish brown color – resembling fire. The piece is currently the property of the Royal Thai Palace.

 

The Great Moghul DiamondGreat Moghul Diamond
A legendary stone, the Great Moghul weighed 240 carats. It was first described by Jean Baptiste Tavernier, a traveler who visited India in 1665. However, the stone has been missing for more than thousand years now and remains a legend.

 

 

Kohinoor DiamondKoh-i-Noor Diamond
The largest diamond in the world, the Koh-i-Noor originally measured over 186 carats. However, it was refined and polished to give a sharper appearance and turned it into a 105.602 carat piece. The diamond has been attached to several Hindu legends and is currently a part of the crown jewels of England.

 

300-x-300_8Millennium Star
The Millennium is believed to be a part of the same stone that produced the “Heart of Eternity” and ranked as the second largest (rated D) diamond in the world. It measures 203.04 carats and is a part of the De-Beers collection at the famed Millennium Dome.