.
There they are...case after case of sparkling beauties! Smiling sales people eager to show you anything, and what appears to be a pit boss in the back for ground support. There's a guard at the front door and you wonder "Is he here to protect the jewelry store from being robbed or to make sure I leave with something!" Jewelry stores and their overly eager commissioned sales people can be a little intimidating for the average bear, but not for you!
I'm going to teach you five simple little tricks that will not only make your experience enjoyable,but put you in command of your purchase. The goal is to get your dream diamond for your dream gal, at a dream price. The sooner you can get the purchase of the ring taken care of, the sooner you can get on one knee (or both knees if you have to) and lock in the deal! If you are like most men (I include myself in this group), you don't look like Brad Pitt and are still amazed that someone will go out with you regularly, much less spend the rest of their life with you! According to the 2002 U.S. Census Bureau Report, 31.7% of men will never marry in their lifetime! Isn't that amazing! Let's not make YOU part of that statistic.
Here are the five lifesaving "take charge tips" I like to call "The Alphabet Rules"
1. Loose. The first tip is pretty easy. If you are buying an engagement ring, only consider buying a diamond that hasn't been mounted yet. You want to see it LOOSE! It has been a closely guarded secret (until now) that jewelers will take their crummiest diamonds and put them in settings and stick them under hot spot lights. The vintage valuable rocks are hidden in the safe in the back! There are four reasons for this 1) if the diamond has a few knicks or chips, they can be hidden under prongs; 2) if the diamond has a little body color (a little yellow), they can use the setting to mask it; 3) if they are rounding up on the actual weight of the diamond, you can't put it on a scale; and 4) it's very hard to have the diamond's proportions checked out to guarantee your diamond will keep sparkling for many years and anniversaries to come.
2. Magnify. Once they bring you some loose diamonds, ask them nicely to place each one under a microscope and point out the imperfections. Ask if the diamond is "eye clean" or not. You want to avoid diamonds that you can see imperfections with your own eyes because they don't hold their value or beauty. Have the jeweler assign a clarity grade to each diamond you are considering and try to stick to diamonds that are only slightly imperfect (SI) to very slight imperfect (VS). Once the diamonds are removed from the microscope, have the jeweler place each one upside down in a white tray (looks like a business card that is folded down the middle) to see if the diamond appears yellow against the white background. The good ones, the near colorless ones (G, H, I color grade) won't have a yellow tinge. If a diamond looks clean, white and big enough to you, ask if it is well proportioned? These will be Class 1 & Class 2's. If the jeweler is uncooperative in any way or seems bothered by your intelligent questions, ask for the manager (he was the pit boss I mentioned earlier).
3. Negotiate. The typical retail markup in a jewelry store is 100% (double) and in some stores as much as 400%!! Never pay sticker at a retail establishment. They expect you to negotiate; think of this like buying a car. A good general rule of thumb is to take their first offer and cut it in half and begin the negotiating from there. If you can end up 30-40% off their original price, you have probably done pretty good for yourself. It is not unusual that during this negotiation the jeweler might throw in a free or heavily discounted setting and explain what kind of warranties come with the purchase. The best warranties aren't warranties at all but guarantees. Avoid the "lab grading reports"; they can be in cahoots with the jeweler on the evaluation, and instead, get a Fully Bonded Appraisal (F.B.A.). F.B.A. diamonds come with a lifetime, buy-back and exchange policy. F.B.A. diamonds are the gold standard for the top quality diamonds on the market. Lower quality merchandise only comes with lab reports that don't guarantee anything.
4. Opinion. Now that the diamond, setting, price, and guarantees have been settled, the jeweler is going to need a day or two to mount your selection. For some unscrupulous jewelers, this is a time where they may try to switch your selection for something else. So let the jeweler know up front that once you pick it up, you are immediately taking it to an independent appraiser to make sure everything is copasetic. When the jeweler knows his work is going to be double checked, they always take special care to get it right and not make any mistakes.
5. Plot. Your final failsafe before you leave the jewelry store is to have the diamond you have chosen plotted. This is like getting a fingerprint of the diamond that can be compared to the diamond at any time - to make sure your diamond is always your diamond. Take your plotting with you and bring it back when you make your pick-up so it can be compared to the diamond you are taking home. Even the most honest jeweler in the world can make a mix-up and set the wrong diamond in the wrong setting. A plot will be the only way to be 100% sure that all the time you spent picking out that diamond doesn't go to waste.
L, M, N, O, P . . .. Loose, Magnify, Negotiate, Opinion, and Plot ~ The Alphabet Rules ~ Five little tips that could save you a lifetime of headaches. After you have the ring in your pocket, you'll have completed a big part of the perfect proposal, but it's only a part. If the romance muscle in your brain doesn't workout regularly and you need a little help to get those romantic juices flowing, read on to "How to Propose Marriage" and we'll see if we can help get you to the altar in record time!
I'm going to teach you five simple little tricks that will not only make your experience enjoyable,but put you in command of your purchase. The goal is to get your dream diamond for your dream gal, at a dream price. The sooner you can get the purchase of the ring taken care of, the sooner you can get on one knee (or both knees if you have to) and lock in the deal! If you are like most men (I include myself in this group), you don't look like Brad Pitt and are still amazed that someone will go out with you regularly, much less spend the rest of their life with you! According to the 2002 U.S. Census Bureau Report, 31.7% of men will never marry in their lifetime! Isn't that amazing! Let's not make YOU part of that statistic.
Here are the five lifesaving "take charge tips" I like to call "The Alphabet Rules"
1. Loose. The first tip is pretty easy. If you are buying an engagement ring, only consider buying a diamond that hasn't been mounted yet. You want to see it LOOSE! It has been a closely guarded secret (until now) that jewelers will take their crummiest diamonds and put them in settings and stick them under hot spot lights. The vintage valuable rocks are hidden in the safe in the back! There are four reasons for this 1) if the diamond has a few knicks or chips, they can be hidden under prongs; 2) if the diamond has a little body color (a little yellow), they can use the setting to mask it; 3) if they are rounding up on the actual weight of the diamond, you can't put it on a scale; and 4) it's very hard to have the diamond's proportions checked out to guarantee your diamond will keep sparkling for many years and anniversaries to come.
2. Magnify. Once they bring you some loose diamonds, ask them nicely to place each one under a microscope and point out the imperfections. Ask if the diamond is "eye clean" or not. You want to avoid diamonds that you can see imperfections with your own eyes because they don't hold their value or beauty. Have the jeweler assign a clarity grade to each diamond you are considering and try to stick to diamonds that are only slightly imperfect (SI) to very slight imperfect (VS). Once the diamonds are removed from the microscope, have the jeweler place each one upside down in a white tray (looks like a business card that is folded down the middle) to see if the diamond appears yellow against the white background. The good ones, the near colorless ones (G, H, I color grade) won't have a yellow tinge. If a diamond looks clean, white and big enough to you, ask if it is well proportioned? These will be Class 1 & Class 2's. If the jeweler is uncooperative in any way or seems bothered by your intelligent questions, ask for the manager (he was the pit boss I mentioned earlier).
3. Negotiate. The typical retail markup in a jewelry store is 100% (double) and in some stores as much as 400%!! Never pay sticker at a retail establishment. They expect you to negotiate; think of this like buying a car. A good general rule of thumb is to take their first offer and cut it in half and begin the negotiating from there. If you can end up 30-40% off their original price, you have probably done pretty good for yourself. It is not unusual that during this negotiation the jeweler might throw in a free or heavily discounted setting and explain what kind of warranties come with the purchase. The best warranties aren't warranties at all but guarantees. Avoid the "lab grading reports"; they can be in cahoots with the jeweler on the evaluation, and instead, get a Fully Bonded Appraisal (F.B.A.). F.B.A. diamonds come with a lifetime, buy-back and exchange policy. F.B.A. diamonds are the gold standard for the top quality diamonds on the market. Lower quality merchandise only comes with lab reports that don't guarantee anything.
4. Opinion. Now that the diamond, setting, price, and guarantees have been settled, the jeweler is going to need a day or two to mount your selection. For some unscrupulous jewelers, this is a time where they may try to switch your selection for something else. So let the jeweler know up front that once you pick it up, you are immediately taking it to an independent appraiser to make sure everything is copasetic. When the jeweler knows his work is going to be double checked, they always take special care to get it right and not make any mistakes.
5. Plot. Your final failsafe before you leave the jewelry store is to have the diamond you have chosen plotted. This is like getting a fingerprint of the diamond that can be compared to the diamond at any time - to make sure your diamond is always your diamond. Take your plotting with you and bring it back when you make your pick-up so it can be compared to the diamond you are taking home. Even the most honest jeweler in the world can make a mix-up and set the wrong diamond in the wrong setting. A plot will be the only way to be 100% sure that all the time you spent picking out that diamond doesn't go to waste.
L, M, N, O, P . . .. Loose, Magnify, Negotiate, Opinion, and Plot ~ The Alphabet Rules ~ Five little tips that could save you a lifetime of headaches. After you have the ring in your pocket, you'll have completed a big part of the perfect proposal, but it's only a part. If the romance muscle in your brain doesn't workout regularly and you need a little help to get those romantic juices flowing, read on to "How to Propose Marriage" and we'll see if we can help get you to the altar in record time!
How To Buy Diamond?
Diamond Buying Guide
How to Buy a Diamond
Buying a diamond is one of the most expensive purchases you will make. This diamond buying guide explains how to get the highest quality diamond for your money as well as how to care for your diamonds. We also teach you about diamond treatments and how to protect yourself.
Quality - 4 C's ~~ Examination ~~ Treatments
Care of Diamonds ~~ Helpful Books ~~ Diamond Stores
Anniversary Gifts ~~ Wedding Links
4C's of Diamond Quality
Diamonds are graded by four characteristics: cut, carat (weight), clarity, and color. All four of these properties determine how much a diamond is worth.
* Cut - What is the proportion of the diamond? Round brilliant diamonds are commonly cut with 58 facets. The better proportioned these facets are on the diamond, the more light will be reflected back to the viewer's eye. This is extremely important. When cut properly, the diamond will sparkle more. Diamond cuts are measured by the table percentage, so always ask for it. A good table percentage is between 55-60%. Cut also refers to the shape such as: round, pear, and oval.
If you are having a diamond mounted, write down the measurements of your stone. Measurements never change. Measure the stone after it is mounted and verify that it matches the appraisal and/or certificate.
* Carat - How big is the diamond? Larger diamonds often cost more per carat due to their size. There are 100 points to a carat. Hence a 50 point diamond is 1/2 a carat. (There are 5 carats to a gram.) Always get the actual point size of a diamond rather than a fractional weight. Sometimes jewelers will try to sell a .90 diamond as a 1 carat diamond. A .90 diamond should be substantially less expensive.
* Clarity - How clear is the stone? Clarity ranges from flawless (perfect) to I (included). Here is a chart:
Flawless: perfect inside and out
Internally Flawless: may have minor blemishes on the outside
VVS1, VVS2: have very very small inclusions. VVS1 inclusions can only be seen through the pavilion. VVS2 inclusions are more visible.
VS1, VS2: have very small inclusions. VS1 inclusions are harder to see than VS2.
SI1, SI2, SI3: have small inclusions
I1, I2, I3: have inclusions visible to the naked eye
* Color: Diamond colors generally range from D - X for white and yellow diamonds. D is the whitest. Around S they become "Fancy" yellow Diamonds. One can also find green, pink, red, blue and brown diamonds - though these are usually irradiated.
Be certain to ask: Do you guarantee the color and clarity of your stones? Many states allow dealers to be off by one color and/or one clarity.
Quality - 4 C's ~~ Examination ~~ Treatments
Care of Diamonds ~~ Helpful Books ~~ Diamond Stores
Anniversary Gifts ~~ Wedding Links
How to Examine a Diamond
To accurately judge the quality of a diamond, it is advisable to use more than the naked eye. Here are common ways to examine a diamond.
* Microscope/Loop: To examine inclusions, one uses either a microscope or a 10x magnifying glass called a jeweler's loop. This enables one to see inclusions in stones. Most dealers will let you use theirs.
* Diamond Tester: A diamond tester uses light to verify that the stone you are examining is really a diamond. It does not guarantee quality -- just the type of stone. Most testers will still work when the stone is mounted. Jewelry Mall Diamond Tester Search Results
* Certification: If you are unsure of your diamond knowledge or the jeweler you are buying from, get a certified Diamond. The best known and reliable certification is from GIA (Gemological Institute of America) or EGL (European Gemological Laboratory). Be aware that certificates will cost you an extra $100-$200 on average.
Quality - 4 C's ~~ Examination ~~ Treatments
Care of Diamonds ~~ Helpful Books ~~ Diamond Stores
Anniversary Gifts ~~ Wedding Links
How Diamonds are Treated
Diamonds are often treated. If you are concerned about getting true value for your money, know what you are getting.
* Filled for clarity: Diamonds with inclusions are sometimes filled with glass to make them appear clearer. Yehuda Diamonds have undergone this treatment. Filler can be damaged by heat, ultrasonic cleaning, and by re-tipping. The filling does not repair the inclusion, it just makes it less visible.
If you look at a filled diamond closely, rotate it under light, you should be able to notice a bluish flash. Yehuda will usually refill your diamond for free if it is ever damaged. Check for guarantees before buying such a diamond.
* Irradiated for color: Can be affected by heat.
* Painted for color: Can be painted to offset a yellow tinge. The paint wears off rather quickly.
*
Ask if the diamond you are considering buying is treated. Getting a notarized statement from your jeweler saying that your diamond in not treated is recommended. This is like having the jeweler swear under oath that to his/her knowledge that the diamond is not treated. Several states have disclosure acts requiring dealers to tell you about these treatments.
Quality - 4 C's ~~ Examination ~~ Treatments
Care of Diamonds ~~ Helpful Books ~~ Diamond Stores
Anniversary Gifts ~~ Wedding Links
How to Care for your Diamonds
Diamonds are often thought to be unshatterable. Unfortunately, this is not the case. Here are some useful handling and care tips.
* Diamonds are brittle: If you hit a diamond hard, they WILL crack or chip if mishandled. Don't wear your diamond when doing rough work.
* Storage: Store diamonds separately. When stored with other jewelry, diamonds may scratch other jewelry (or each other).
* Cleaning: The best method for cleaning is a jeweler's polishing cloth. Most jewelers will clean your diamond ring for free if you are making another purchase in the store.
Quality - 4 C's ~~ Examination ~~ Treatments
Care of Diamonds ~~ Helpful Books ~~ Diamond Stores
Anniversary Gifts ~~ Wedding Links
Helpful Books
* Consumer Guide To Diamonds, Third Edition - by Joseph Mirsky
Practical and sensible approach to diamond selection, terminology and ownership.
* How to Buy a Diamond: Insider Secrets for Getting Your Money's Worth - by Fred Cuellar
Very educational and detailed reference.
* Engagement and Wedding Rings: The Definitive Buying Guide for People in Love - by Antoinette Leonard Matlins, Antonio C. Bonanno (Contributor), and Jane Crystal
A practical book for recognizing the quality of various investment diamonds.
How to Buy a Diamond
Buying a diamond is one of the most expensive purchases you will make. This diamond buying guide explains how to get the highest quality diamond for your money as well as how to care for your diamonds. We also teach you about diamond treatments and how to protect yourself.
Quality - 4 C's ~~ Examination ~~ Treatments
Care of Diamonds ~~ Helpful Books ~~ Diamond Stores
Anniversary Gifts ~~ Wedding Links
4C's of Diamond Quality
Diamonds are graded by four characteristics: cut, carat (weight), clarity, and color. All four of these properties determine how much a diamond is worth.
* Cut - What is the proportion of the diamond? Round brilliant diamonds are commonly cut with 58 facets. The better proportioned these facets are on the diamond, the more light will be reflected back to the viewer's eye. This is extremely important. When cut properly, the diamond will sparkle more. Diamond cuts are measured by the table percentage, so always ask for it. A good table percentage is between 55-60%. Cut also refers to the shape such as: round, pear, and oval.
If you are having a diamond mounted, write down the measurements of your stone. Measurements never change. Measure the stone after it is mounted and verify that it matches the appraisal and/or certificate.
* Carat - How big is the diamond? Larger diamonds often cost more per carat due to their size. There are 100 points to a carat. Hence a 50 point diamond is 1/2 a carat. (There are 5 carats to a gram.) Always get the actual point size of a diamond rather than a fractional weight. Sometimes jewelers will try to sell a .90 diamond as a 1 carat diamond. A .90 diamond should be substantially less expensive.
* Clarity - How clear is the stone? Clarity ranges from flawless (perfect) to I (included). Here is a chart:
Flawless: perfect inside and out
Internally Flawless: may have minor blemishes on the outside
VVS1, VVS2: have very very small inclusions. VVS1 inclusions can only be seen through the pavilion. VVS2 inclusions are more visible.
VS1, VS2: have very small inclusions. VS1 inclusions are harder to see than VS2.
SI1, SI2, SI3: have small inclusions
I1, I2, I3: have inclusions visible to the naked eye
* Color: Diamond colors generally range from D - X for white and yellow diamonds. D is the whitest. Around S they become "Fancy" yellow Diamonds. One can also find green, pink, red, blue and brown diamonds - though these are usually irradiated.
Be certain to ask: Do you guarantee the color and clarity of your stones? Many states allow dealers to be off by one color and/or one clarity.
Quality - 4 C's ~~ Examination ~~ Treatments
Care of Diamonds ~~ Helpful Books ~~ Diamond Stores
Anniversary Gifts ~~ Wedding Links
How to Examine a Diamond
To accurately judge the quality of a diamond, it is advisable to use more than the naked eye. Here are common ways to examine a diamond.
* Microscope/Loop: To examine inclusions, one uses either a microscope or a 10x magnifying glass called a jeweler's loop. This enables one to see inclusions in stones. Most dealers will let you use theirs.
* Diamond Tester: A diamond tester uses light to verify that the stone you are examining is really a diamond. It does not guarantee quality -- just the type of stone. Most testers will still work when the stone is mounted. Jewelry Mall Diamond Tester Search Results
* Certification: If you are unsure of your diamond knowledge or the jeweler you are buying from, get a certified Diamond. The best known and reliable certification is from GIA (Gemological Institute of America) or EGL (European Gemological Laboratory). Be aware that certificates will cost you an extra $100-$200 on average.
Quality - 4 C's ~~ Examination ~~ Treatments
Care of Diamonds ~~ Helpful Books ~~ Diamond Stores
Anniversary Gifts ~~ Wedding Links
How Diamonds are Treated
Diamonds are often treated. If you are concerned about getting true value for your money, know what you are getting.
* Filled for clarity: Diamonds with inclusions are sometimes filled with glass to make them appear clearer. Yehuda Diamonds have undergone this treatment. Filler can be damaged by heat, ultrasonic cleaning, and by re-tipping. The filling does not repair the inclusion, it just makes it less visible.
If you look at a filled diamond closely, rotate it under light, you should be able to notice a bluish flash. Yehuda will usually refill your diamond for free if it is ever damaged. Check for guarantees before buying such a diamond.
* Irradiated for color: Can be affected by heat.
* Painted for color: Can be painted to offset a yellow tinge. The paint wears off rather quickly.
*
Ask if the diamond you are considering buying is treated. Getting a notarized statement from your jeweler saying that your diamond in not treated is recommended. This is like having the jeweler swear under oath that to his/her knowledge that the diamond is not treated. Several states have disclosure acts requiring dealers to tell you about these treatments.
Quality - 4 C's ~~ Examination ~~ Treatments
Care of Diamonds ~~ Helpful Books ~~ Diamond Stores
Anniversary Gifts ~~ Wedding Links
How to Care for your Diamonds
Diamonds are often thought to be unshatterable. Unfortunately, this is not the case. Here are some useful handling and care tips.
* Diamonds are brittle: If you hit a diamond hard, they WILL crack or chip if mishandled. Don't wear your diamond when doing rough work.
* Storage: Store diamonds separately. When stored with other jewelry, diamonds may scratch other jewelry (or each other).
* Cleaning: The best method for cleaning is a jeweler's polishing cloth. Most jewelers will clean your diamond ring for free if you are making another purchase in the store.
Quality - 4 C's ~~ Examination ~~ Treatments
Care of Diamonds ~~ Helpful Books ~~ Diamond Stores
Anniversary Gifts ~~ Wedding Links
Helpful Books
* Consumer Guide To Diamonds, Third Edition - by Joseph Mirsky
Practical and sensible approach to diamond selection, terminology and ownership.
* How to Buy a Diamond: Insider Secrets for Getting Your Money's Worth - by Fred Cuellar
Very educational and detailed reference.
* Engagement and Wedding Rings: The Definitive Buying Guide for People in Love - by Antoinette Leonard Matlins, Antonio C. Bonanno (Contributor), and Jane Crystal
A practical book for recognizing the quality of various investment diamonds.
Spoonmaker's Diamond
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
The Spoonmaker's Diamond (Turkish: Kaşıkçı Elması), also known as the Kasikci, is the pride of the Topkapi Palace Museum and its most valuable single exhibit, it is an 86 carat (17 g) pear-shaped diamond. Surrounded by a double row of forty-nine old mine-cut diamonds and well spotlighted, it hangs in a glass case on the wall of one of the rooms of the treasury. The forty-nine separate brilliants surround it, giving it the appearance of a full moon lighting a bright and shining sky amidst the stars.
Uncle Sam (diamond)
Uncle Sam is the nickname for the largest diamond discovered in the United States. In 1924, W. O. Bassum discovered this pale brown diamond at Crater of Diamonds state park in Murfreesboro, Arkansas. The rough diamond originally discovered weighed 40.23 carats (8.046 g). It was cut twice, resulting in a final 12.42-carat (2.484 g) M-color, VVS1 clarity emerald-cut diamond. In 1971, the Uncle Sam was sold for $150,000.
Spirit of de Grisogono Diamond
The Spirit of de Grisogono is the world's largest cut black diamond and the world's fifth largest diamond overall. Starting at an uncut weight of 587 carats (117 g), it was taken from its origin in west central Africa and cut by Swiss jeweler De Grisogono. The resulting mogul-cut diamond weighs 312.24 carats (62.45 g) and is set in a white gold ring with 702 smaller white diamonds totaling 36.69 carats (7.34 g). The ring is rumored to have been sold.
Star of Sierra Leone
The 968.9-carat Star of Sierra Leone diamond was discovered on February 14, 1972 in the Diminco alluvial mines in the Koidu area of Sierra Leone. It ranks as the third-largest gem-quality diamond and the largest alluvial diamond ever discovered.[1]
On October 3, 1972, Sierra Leone's then-President, Siaka Stevens, announced that Harry Winston, the New York City jeweller, had purchased the Star of Sierra Leone for under $2.5 million.[2]
The stone was initially cut into an emerald shaped stone weighing 143.2 carats but was later re-cut due to an internal flaw,[3] eventually resulting in 17 separate finished diamonds, of which 13 were deemed to be flawless. The largest single finished stone was a flawless pear-shaped diamond of 53.96 carats. Six of the diamonds cut from the original rough were later set by Harry Winston into the "Star of Sierra Leone" brooch.
On October 3, 1972, Sierra Leone's then-President, Siaka Stevens, announced that Harry Winston, the New York City jeweller, had purchased the Star of Sierra Leone for under $2.5 million.[2]
The stone was initially cut into an emerald shaped stone weighing 143.2 carats but was later re-cut due to an internal flaw,[3] eventually resulting in 17 separate finished diamonds, of which 13 were deemed to be flawless. The largest single finished stone was a flawless pear-shaped diamond of 53.96 carats. Six of the diamonds cut from the original rough were later set by Harry Winston into the "Star of Sierra Leone" brooch.
Steinmetz Pink Diamond
The Steinmetz Pink is a diamond weighing 59.60 carats (11.92 g), rated in color as Fancy Vivid Pink by the Gemological Institute of America. The Steinmetz Pink is the largest known diamond having been rated Vivid Pink. As a result of this exceptional rarity, the Steinmetz Group took a cautious 20 months to cut the Pink. It was unveiled in Monaco on May 29, 2003, in a public ceremony.
The Steinmetz Pink was displayed as part of the Smithsonian's "The Splendor of Diamonds" exhibit, alongside the De Beers Millennium Star, the world’s second largest (the Centenary Diamond is the largest) top colour (D) internally and externally flawless pear-shaped diamond at 203.04 carat (40.608 g), the Heart of Eternity Diamond, a 27.64 carat (5.582 g) heart-cut blue diamond and the Moussaieff Red Diamond, the world's largest known Fancy Red diamond at 5.11 carats.
The Steinmetz Pink was displayed as part of the Smithsonian's "The Splendor of Diamonds" exhibit, alongside the De Beers Millennium Star, the world’s second largest (the Centenary Diamond is the largest) top colour (D) internally and externally flawless pear-shaped diamond at 203.04 carat (40.608 g), the Heart of Eternity Diamond, a 27.64 carat (5.582 g) heart-cut blue diamond and the Moussaieff Red Diamond, the world's largest known Fancy Red diamond at 5.11 carats.
Star of the South
The Star of the South, also known as Estrela do Sul, is a diamond found in Brazil in 1853.[1] The diamond is cut into a cushion shape and weighs 128.48 carats (25.70 g). The Star of the South is graded as a type IIa diamond, with a colour grading of light pinkish-brown and a clarity of VS2. At the time of discovery, the diamond weighed 254.5 carats (50.9 g). It has passed through the hands of many owners, and its last known purchase was by Cartier store, when it was sold by Rustomjee Jamsetjee of Mumbai. The light reflected by the diamond is white, and the refracted light is of a rose tint.
Ocean Dream Diamond
The Ocean Dream is a diamond measuring 5.51 carats (1.102 g), rated in color as Fancy Deep Blue-Green by the Gemological Institute of America. The Ocean Dream is the only natural diamond known to the GIA to possess a blue-green hue, making it one of the rarest diamonds in the world. (A blue-green colour is commonly seen in artificially enhanced diamonds, whose colour is imparted by various irradiation methods.) After careful study, the GIA concluded that its distinct hue is a result of millions of years of exposure to natural radiation. The Ocean Dream originated in Central Africa, and is currently owned by the Cora Diamond Corporation.
Nizam Diamond
Nizam Diamond is believed to have been the most famous diamond in its time. There are tales about its size, around 340 carats (68 g). The story goes back to the rulers of Golconda, and is believed to found at Kollur Mine[1]. The precious stone gets its name from the Prince Nizam of Hyderabad.
The diamond was almond in shape.
The diamond was almond in shape.
Kazanjian Red Diamond
The Kazanjian Red Diamond, a 5.05-carat Asscher-cut red diamond formerly known simply as "Red Diamond". It was cut from a 35-carat piece of boart discovered near Lichtenburg, South Africa. It reappeared in 2007 after a 37-year absence from sight, and was purchased by Kazanjian Brothers Inc.
Jubilee Diamond
The Jubilee Diamond, originally known as the Reitz Diamond is a colourless, cushion-shaped diamond weighing 245.35 carats (49.07 grams), making it the sixth largest diamond in the world. It was originally named after Francis William Reitz, the then president of the Orange Free State where the stone was discovered, before being renamed to honour the 60th anniversary of the coronation of Queen Victoria in 1897.
The original stone, a rough octahedron weighing 650.80 carats (130.16 g), was discovered in 1895 at the Jagersfontein Mine in South Africa. A consortium of diamond merchants from London purchased it along with its even larger sister, the Excelsior, in 1896, and sent it to Amsterdam where it was polished by M.B. Barends. A 40 carat (8 g) chunk was removed, which itself yielded a 13.34 carat (2.668 g) pear-shaped gem eventually purchased by Dom Carlos I of Portugal.
The original stone, a rough octahedron weighing 650.80 carats (130.16 g), was discovered in 1895 at the Jagersfontein Mine in South Africa. A consortium of diamond merchants from London purchased it along with its even larger sister, the Excelsior, in 1896, and sent it to Amsterdam where it was polished by M.B. Barends. A 40 carat (8 g) chunk was removed, which itself yielded a 13.34 carat (2.668 g) pear-shaped gem eventually purchased by Dom Carlos I of Portugal.
Jones Diamond
The “Jones Diamond,” also known as the “Punch Jones Diamond,” "The Grover Jones Diamond," or "The Horseshoe Diamond," was an 34.48 carat (6.896 g) alluvial diamond found in Peterstown, West Virginia by members of the Jones family. It remains the largest alluvial diamond ever discovered in North America.
Jacob Diamond
The Jacob Diamond is a large diamond, ranked seventh in the world, known earlier as the Imperial Diamond.[citation needed] It is believed to be the Victoria Diamond, owned by the The Nizam of Hyderabad and currently owned by the Government of India.
Its cut in a rectangular cushion-cut with 58 facets, measures 39.5 mm long, 29.25 mm wide and 22.5 mm deep. The diamond weighs 184.5 carats (36.90 g).
Its cut in a rectangular cushion-cut with 58 facets, measures 39.5 mm long, 29.25 mm wide and 22.5 mm deep. The diamond weighs 184.5 carats (36.90 g).
Incomparable Diamond
In 1970, Louis Glick acquired the 890 carats (180 g) rough and 407.48 carats (81.50 g) cut Incomparable Diamond, at that time the world's fourth largest rough diamond.[1] The principal 407 carats (81 g) stone remains the third largest gem-quality faceted diamond in the world.
Alternate sources claim that this stone was only discovered in the early 1980s in the town of Mbuji Mayi in the Democratic Republic of Congo, by a young girl playing outside her uncle's house, where rubble from a nearby diamond mine had been dumped.[2]
The stone was cut by a team led by Marvin Samuels, who co-owned the stone along with Donald Zale of Zales Jewellers and Louis Glick. In November 1984 the finished stones were put on display: a single golden diamond of 407.48 carats (81.50 g) in a 'triolette' shape, and fourteen additional gems. Notably, the satellite stones cut from the Incomparable varied greatly in colour, from near-colourless to rich yellow-brown.
Alternate sources claim that this stone was only discovered in the early 1980s in the town of Mbuji Mayi in the Democratic Republic of Congo, by a young girl playing outside her uncle's house, where rubble from a nearby diamond mine had been dumped.[2]
The stone was cut by a team led by Marvin Samuels, who co-owned the stone along with Donald Zale of Zales Jewellers and Louis Glick. In November 1984 the finished stones were put on display: a single golden diamond of 407.48 carats (81.50 g) in a 'triolette' shape, and fourteen additional gems. Notably, the satellite stones cut from the Incomparable varied greatly in colour, from near-colourless to rich yellow-brown.
Hortensia Diamond
The Hortensia Diamond, peach color, formerly part of the French Crown Jewels. Displayed in the Louvre.
Heart of Eternity Diamond
The Heart of Eternity is a diamond measuring 27.64 carats (5.528 g), rated in color as "Fancy Vivid Blue" by the Gemological Institute of America. The Heart of Eternity was cut by the Steinmetz Group, who owned the diamond before selling it to the De Beers Group.
The Heart of Eternity is a member of an exceedingly rare class of colored diamonds. It was found in the Premier Diamond Mine of South Africa. Blue (Type IIb) diamonds account for less than 0.1% of the output of the Premier mine,[citation needed] which is the only mine in the world with an appreciable production of blue diamonds. Of the ten colored diamonds that drew the highest bids, six of those ten were blue diamonds, rating values as high as $550,000 to $580,000 per carat ($2750–2900/mg).[specify]
The Heart of Eternity was unveiled in January 2000 as part of the De Beers Millennium Jewels collection, which included the Millennium Star. The Heart of Eternity was featured with ten other blue diamonds; the collection of blue diamonds totaled 118 carats (23.6 g). The De Beers Millennium Jewels were displayed at London’s Millennium Dome throughout 2000. An attempt on November 7, 2000 to steal the collection was foiled.[1]
During its exhibition at the Smithsonian,[specify] the Heart of Eternity was noted to be on loan from a private collector, giving rise to speculation that it was sold sometime during the exhibition at the Millennium Dome in London.
The Heart of Eternity is a member of an exceedingly rare class of colored diamonds. It was found in the Premier Diamond Mine of South Africa. Blue (Type IIb) diamonds account for less than 0.1% of the output of the Premier mine,[citation needed] which is the only mine in the world with an appreciable production of blue diamonds. Of the ten colored diamonds that drew the highest bids, six of those ten were blue diamonds, rating values as high as $550,000 to $580,000 per carat ($2750–2900/mg).[specify]
The Heart of Eternity was unveiled in January 2000 as part of the De Beers Millennium Jewels collection, which included the Millennium Star. The Heart of Eternity was featured with ten other blue diamonds; the collection of blue diamonds totaled 118 carats (23.6 g). The De Beers Millennium Jewels were displayed at London’s Millennium Dome throughout 2000. An attempt on November 7, 2000 to steal the collection was foiled.[1]
During its exhibition at the Smithsonian,[specify] the Heart of Eternity was noted to be on loan from a private collector, giving rise to speculation that it was sold sometime during the exhibition at the Millennium Dome in London.
Great Mogul Diamond
The Great Mogul Diamond, fabled 280-carat mogul-cut diamond, now lost, although presumed by historians to have been recut as the Orlov.
Great Chrysanthemum Diamond
The Great Chrysanthemum Diamond is a diamond measuring 104.15 carats (20.830 g) with a Pear-Shaped Modified Brilliant Cut, rated in colour as Fancy Orange-Brown and I1 clarity by the Gemological Institute of America. The diamond's origins are in South Africa, where it was bought by the jeweler Julius Cohen as a 198.28 carat (39.656 g) rough in 1963. After buying it, Cohen returned to New York where he had it cut into its distinctive pear shape by S&M Kaufman. Because of its colouring similarities to the brown chrysanthemum, it was named after that flower.
The Great Chrysanthemum has been shown in a number of diamond exhibits throughout the United States. In 1965, the Chrysanthemum was named a winner of one of the Diamonds International Awards and was placed on display in the Rand Easter Festival in Johannesburg, South Africa. Julius Cohen later sold the diamond to an unknown and reputedly foreign buyer; it was later purchased by Garrards of London around 2003.
The Great Chrysanthemum has been shown in a number of diamond exhibits throughout the United States. In 1965, the Chrysanthemum was named a winner of one of the Diamonds International Awards and was placed on display in the Rand Easter Festival in Johannesburg, South Africa. Julius Cohen later sold the diamond to an unknown and reputedly foreign buyer; it was later purchased by Garrards of London around 2003.
Golden Jubilee Diamond
The Golden Jubilee is currently the largest faceted diamond in the world. Since 1908, Cullinan I, also known as the Great Star of Africa, had held the title, which changed following the 1985 discovery of a large brown diamond of 755.5 carats (151 g) in the prolific blue ground of the Premier mine in South Africa; the diamond would later be cut to a weight of 545.67 carats (109.13 g).
The Premier mine was also the origin of the Cullinan diamonds in 1905, as well as other notables such as the Taylor-Burton in 1966 and the Centenary in 1986.
The "Unnamed Brown", as the Golden Jubilee was first known, was considered something of an ugly duckling by most. It was given to Gabriel Tolkowsky by De Beers for the purpose of testing special tools and cutting methods which had been developed for intended use on the flawless D-colour ("colourless") Centenary. These tools and methods had never been tested before, and the "Unnamed Brown" seemed the perfect guinea pig; it would be of no great loss should something go amiss.
To the surprise of all concerned, what resulted was a yellow-brown diamond in a fire rose cushion cut, outweighing Cullinan I by 15.37 carats (3.07 g). The stone remained largely unknown to the outside world, as the Golden Jubilee's sister, the Centenary, had already been selected and promoted to herald De Beer's centennial celebrations in 1988.
The unnamed diamond had earlier been brought to Thailand by the Thai Diamond Manufacturers Association to be exhibited in the Thai Board of Investment Exhibition in Laem Chabang. There was a mile-long queue to see the diamond, which outshone all other exhibits.
While the current whereabouts of the Centenary are unknown, the Golden Jubilee is known to have been purchased from De Beers by a group led by Henry Ho of Thailand in 1995. The diamond was brought to Pope John Paul II in the Vatican to receive the papal blessing. It was also blessed by the Supreme Buddhist Patriarch and the Supreme Imam in Thailand. The Golden Jubilee Diamond (Thai: เพชรกาญจนาภิเษก) was named by King Bhumibol Adulyadej and given to him in honour of his 50th coronation anniversary. It was initially planned to mount the Golden Jubilee in the royal scepter. A subsequent plan was to have it mounted in a royal seal.
The Golden Jubilee Diamond has been exhibited at Henry Ho's 59-story Jewelry Trade Center in Bangkok, the Central Department Store in Lard Prao, Thailand, and internationally in Basel (Switzerland), Borsheims in Omaha, USA (owned by Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway Inc.), and Gleims Jewelers in Palo Alto, USA. It is now located in the Royal Thai Palace as part of the crown jewels.
The Premier mine was also the origin of the Cullinan diamonds in 1905, as well as other notables such as the Taylor-Burton in 1966 and the Centenary in 1986.
The "Unnamed Brown", as the Golden Jubilee was first known, was considered something of an ugly duckling by most. It was given to Gabriel Tolkowsky by De Beers for the purpose of testing special tools and cutting methods which had been developed for intended use on the flawless D-colour ("colourless") Centenary. These tools and methods had never been tested before, and the "Unnamed Brown" seemed the perfect guinea pig; it would be of no great loss should something go amiss.
To the surprise of all concerned, what resulted was a yellow-brown diamond in a fire rose cushion cut, outweighing Cullinan I by 15.37 carats (3.07 g). The stone remained largely unknown to the outside world, as the Golden Jubilee's sister, the Centenary, had already been selected and promoted to herald De Beer's centennial celebrations in 1988.
The unnamed diamond had earlier been brought to Thailand by the Thai Diamond Manufacturers Association to be exhibited in the Thai Board of Investment Exhibition in Laem Chabang. There was a mile-long queue to see the diamond, which outshone all other exhibits.
While the current whereabouts of the Centenary are unknown, the Golden Jubilee is known to have been purchased from De Beers by a group led by Henry Ho of Thailand in 1995. The diamond was brought to Pope John Paul II in the Vatican to receive the papal blessing. It was also blessed by the Supreme Buddhist Patriarch and the Supreme Imam in Thailand. The Golden Jubilee Diamond (Thai: เพชรกาญจนาภิเษก) was named by King Bhumibol Adulyadej and given to him in honour of his 50th coronation anniversary. It was initially planned to mount the Golden Jubilee in the royal scepter. A subsequent plan was to have it mounted in a royal seal.
The Golden Jubilee Diamond has been exhibited at Henry Ho's 59-story Jewelry Trade Center in Bangkok, the Central Department Store in Lard Prao, Thailand, and internationally in Basel (Switzerland), Borsheims in Omaha, USA (owned by Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway Inc.), and Gleims Jewelers in Palo Alto, USA. It is now located in the Royal Thai Palace as part of the crown jewels.
Golden Eye Diamond
The Golden Eye Diamond is a 43.5 carat Canary Yellow diamond. It is said to be the world's largest, flawless, 'perfect-cut' Canary Yellow diamond.
It was seized by federal authorities in Ohio. It was approved to be auctioned by a federal judge.[1] it is estimated that it will fetch around $20 million dollars.
It was seized by federal authorities in Ohio. It was approved to be auctioned by a federal judge.[1] it is estimated that it will fetch around $20 million dollars.
Florentine Diamond
The Florentine Diamond is a lost diamond of Indian origin. It is light yellow in colour with very slight green overtones. It is cut in the form of an irregular (although very intricate) nine-sided 126-facet double rose cut, with a weight of 137.27 carats (27.454 g). The stone is also known as the Tuscan, the Tuscany Diamond, the Grand Duke of Tuscany, the Austrian Diamond and the Austrian Yellow Diamond.
Excelsior Diamond
The Excelsior Diamond was found on June 30, 1893 at the Jagersfontein Mine by a worker while loading a truck. The man was able to hide the diamond from the supervisors but delivered it to the manager of the mine himself. Until 1905, when the larger Cullinan diamond was found, the Excelsior was the largest known diamond in the world. It had a blue-white tint and weighed 971¾ carats (194.2 g). It was ultimately cut into ten stones weighing from 13 to 68 carats. (2.6 to 13.6 g). Immediately after its discovery the news spread around the world.
The Excelsior I, the largest gem cut from the crystal, was eventually bought by jeweler Robert Mouawad.
The Excelsior I, the largest gem cut from the crystal, was eventually bought by jeweler Robert Mouawad.
Earth Star Diamond
The Earth Star Diamond is a brown stone diamond that was found at the De Beers, Jagersfontein Mine in South Africa on May 16th, 1967. The rough gem weight was 248.9 carats (49.8 g). The diamond came from the 2,500-foot (760 m) level of the volcanic diamond-bearing pipe. The cut stone is a 111.59 carats (22.32 g), pear-shaped diamond with a strong brown color and extraordinary brilliance, Argyle color grading scale is reported as equivalent to fancy cognac and C7 color grade. It was exhibited along with many other notable Diamonds in the "De Beers Hall" of the mining museum in 1971.
Dresden Green Diamond
The Dresden Green diamond is a 41 carats (8.2 g) natural green diamond that has a historical record dating to 1722, when a London news-sheet carried an article about it in its 25 October-27th edition.[1]
It is named after the capital of Saxony, Germany where it has been on display for most of the last two centuries. It did make some sojourns following World War II, to the Soviet Union until 1958, and to the Smithsonian in Washington DC, USA in 2000, where it was displayed in the same room as the Hope diamond.
The stone's unique green color is due to natural exposure to radioactive materials (see Diamond enhancement#Irradiation). The stone is being used to compare natural versus lab-produced green diamonds — it is hoped that it can be used to devise a test to differentiate between naturally green diamonds, which are quite rare, and lab-produced ones.[2]
It is named after the capital of Saxony, Germany where it has been on display for most of the last two centuries. It did make some sojourns following World War II, to the Soviet Union until 1958, and to the Smithsonian in Washington DC, USA in 2000, where it was displayed in the same room as the Hope diamond.
The stone's unique green color is due to natural exposure to radioactive materials (see Diamond enhancement#Irradiation). The stone is being used to compare natural versus lab-produced green diamonds — it is hoped that it can be used to devise a test to differentiate between naturally green diamonds, which are quite rare, and lab-produced ones.[2]
Deepdene
The Deepdene is a 104.52 carats (20.90 g) yellow diamond widely considered to be the largest irradiated diamond in the world.
The Deepdene gets its name from the Pennsylvania estate of Mrs. Bok, wife of Cary W. Bok, both the diamond's original owners. At the time, the Deepdene weighed slightly more at 104.88 carats (20.98 g) and was mounted in a diamond clip.
The Deepdene gets its name from the Pennsylvania estate of Mrs. Bok, wife of Cary W. Bok, both the diamond's original owners. At the time, the Deepdene weighed slightly more at 104.88 carats (20.98 g) and was mounted in a diamond clip.
Darya-ye Noor
The Darya-ye Noor "Sea of Light", "River of Light" or "Ocean of Light"; also spelled Darya-i-Noor, Darya-e Noor and Darya-i-Nur is one of the largest diamonds in the world, weighing an estimated 182 carats (36 g). Its colour, pale pink, is one of the rarest to be found in diamonds. The Darya-ye Noor presently forms part of the Iranian Crown Jewels and is on display at the Central Bank of Iran in Tehran.[1]
Chloe Diamond
The Chloe Diamond, largest round brilliant-cut diamond ever put on auction. Sold on November 14th, 2007 at Sotheby's in Geneva to Georges Marciano of the Guess clothing line for $16.2 million, the second-highest price ever paid for a diamond on auction. Took 2 years to cut.
Briolette of India
The Briolette of India is a colorless diamond (weighing 90.38 carats (18.08 g)) found in India. It is cut in a briolette shape, and is a D-coloured (colourless) type IIa diamond.[1] The recorded history of the diamond dates from the 12th century, when it was first acquired by Eleanor of Aquitaine, the Queen consort of King Louis VII of France between 1137 and 1152. This makes the Briolette of India the oldest diamond on record in the world, even older than the famous Koh-i-Noor.[1][2] The diamond was in the possession of several famous historical figures such as King Richard the Lion Heart, who carried it with him to the third crusade, and King Henry II of France who presented it to his mistress Diane de Poitiers.[3] The diamond has disappeared from records for long periods, sometimes even for several centuries, before resurfacing again.
Carbonado
Carbonado, commonly known as the 'Black Diamond,' is a natural polycrystalline diamond found in alluvial deposits in the Central African Republic and Brazil. Its natural colour is black or dark grey, and it is more porous than other diamonds.
Aurora Pyramid of Hope
It is comprehensive natural color diamond collection in the world[1]. It was on public display at the American Museum of Natural History in New York from 1989 to 2005 in the Morgan Hall of Gems. Aurora Pyramid of Hope was the centerpiece for the 1998 exhibition The Nature of Diamonds organized by the American Museum of Natural History which toured Japan, Canada and the U.S. In 2005 Aurora Pyramid of Hope was invited to participate in the exhibition Diamonds organized by The Natural History Museum of London. At that time 36 new specimens were added to the original 260 diamonds. Today Aurora Pyramid of Hope consists of 296 diamonds weighing a total of 267.45 carats (53.49 g).
All the colors of the spectrum that diamonds exist in are represented in various shapes, saturations and modifiers including blue diamonds, pink diamonds, red diamonds, green diamonds, orange diamonds, purple diamonds, violet diamonds, yellow diamonds, olive diamonds and brown diamonds. Also represented are color changing chameleon diamonds. Aurora Pyramid of Hope was put together by Alan Bronstein and Harry Rodman over 25 years.
Aurora Pyramid of Hope is currently on display at The Natural History Museum of London.
[edit] References
All the colors of the spectrum that diamonds exist in are represented in various shapes, saturations and modifiers including blue diamonds, pink diamonds, red diamonds, green diamonds, orange diamonds, purple diamonds, violet diamonds, yellow diamonds, olive diamonds and brown diamonds. Also represented are color changing chameleon diamonds. Aurora Pyramid of Hope was put together by Alan Bronstein and Harry Rodman over 25 years.
Aurora Pyramid of Hope is currently on display at The Natural History Museum of London.
[edit] References
Aurora Butterfly of Peace
The Aurora Butterfly of Peace diamond collection is an artwork consisting of 240 natural, fancy colored diamonds weighing a combined total of 167 carats (33 g). This butterfly-shaped diamond mosaic was created over a period of twelve years by Alan Bronstein and Harry Rodman. The diamonds were collected and assembled one stone at a time. The Aurora Butterfly of Peace was conceived by the artists as an eternal icon of love, beauty, energy, nature, peace. It symbolizes a spiritual connection to earth for all mankind.
From November 2004 through July 2005, the Butterfly of Peace was exhibited in the National Gem Collection Gallery at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C.
A smaller version of the Butterfly of Peace was displayed at the Houston Museum of Natural Science from June 1994 through March 1996. The Aurora Butterfly of Peace was on display from May 25 to July 30, 2008 at the Museum of the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), to help launch “The Facets of the GIA” exhibit, which showcases the prominent role of the Institute in the world of gemology.
Two research studies involving the Butterfly of Peace have resulted in new scientific breakthroughs about fluorescence and phosphorescence in fancy colored diamonds. The amazing phenomena of fluorescence can be seen as a skeletal pattern of glowing colors when the diamonds are exposed to ultraviolet light. There are rare and unusual color diamonds that make up the design including purples from Russia, blues and oranges from South Africa, lime greens from Brazil, violets and dozens of pinks from the Argyle Mine in Australia.
From November 2004 through July 2005, the Butterfly of Peace was exhibited in the National Gem Collection Gallery at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C.
A smaller version of the Butterfly of Peace was displayed at the Houston Museum of Natural Science from June 1994 through March 1996. The Aurora Butterfly of Peace was on display from May 25 to July 30, 2008 at the Museum of the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), to help launch “The Facets of the GIA” exhibit, which showcases the prominent role of the Institute in the world of gemology.
Two research studies involving the Butterfly of Peace have resulted in new scientific breakthroughs about fluorescence and phosphorescence in fancy colored diamonds. The amazing phenomena of fluorescence can be seen as a skeletal pattern of glowing colors when the diamonds are exposed to ultraviolet light. There are rare and unusual color diamonds that make up the design including purples from Russia, blues and oranges from South Africa, lime greens from Brazil, violets and dozens of pinks from the Argyle Mine in Australia.
Centenary Diamond
The De Beers Centenary Diamond is, at 273.85 carats (54.77 g), the third-largest diamond to have been produced in the Premier Mine. The Centenary Diamond is rated in color as grade D color by the Gemological Institute of America, which is the highest grade of colorless diamond and is internally and externally flawless. It was named the Centenary Diamond as it was presented in the rough for the Centennial Celebration of De Beers Consolidated Mines on May 11, 1988. The Centenary Diamond was unveiled in final form in May 1991.
Cullinan diamond
The Cullinan diamond is the largest rough gem-quality diamond ever found, at 3,106.75 carats (621.35 g).[1]
The largest polished gem from the stone is named Cullinan I or the Great Star of Africa, and at 530.2 carats (106.0 g) [2] was the largest polished diamond in the world until the 1985 discovery of the Golden Jubilee Diamond, 545.67 carats (109.13 g), also from the Premier Mine. Cullinan I is now mounted in the head of the Sceptre with the Cross. The second largest gem from the Cullinan stone, Cullinan II or the Lesser Star of Africa, at 317.4 carats (63.5 g), is the fourth largest polished diamond in the world. Both gems are in the Crown Jewels of the United Kingdom.
The largest polished gem from the stone is named Cullinan I or the Great Star of Africa, and at 530.2 carats (106.0 g) [2] was the largest polished diamond in the world until the 1985 discovery of the Golden Jubilee Diamond, 545.67 carats (109.13 g), also from the Premier Mine. Cullinan I is now mounted in the head of the Sceptre with the Cross. The second largest gem from the Cullinan stone, Cullinan II or the Lesser Star of Africa, at 317.4 carats (63.5 g), is the fourth largest polished diamond in the world. Both gems are in the Crown Jewels of the United Kingdom.
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