Learn the fascinating stories behind the world’s most famous diamonds and legendary gems, from their discovery to their current status as symbols of luxury and intrigue.

Navigate This Guide:

• Introduction
• 5 Practical Tips for Diamond Engagement Rings Inspired by Famous Diamonds
• The Lore of Legendary Gems 
• From Rough to Radiance: The Art of Diamond Crafting 
• Ethical Brilliance: The Shift Towards Responsible Luxury 
• Conclusion
• 7 Frequently Asked Questions about Famous Diamonds
• 101 Most Famous Diamonds and Legendary Gems in the World

Introduction

Who doesn’t love a little fantasy window shopping, even if that window happens to be looking onto some of the wealthiest and highest-status individuals the world has ever known? Hey, we can all dream.

Let us take you for a little wander down the internet’s most exclusive shopping mall – a veritable Hall of Fame for some of the rarest and most revered diamonds ever discovered. Just, please, try not to scuff up the red carpet. It’s on loan from Hollywood…

Before we dive deeper into the specifics, here are some practical tips to help guide your decision-making process:

5 Practical Tips for Diamond Engagement Rings Inspired by Famous Diamonds

• Tip 1:  Understand the 4Cs
  • Cut: The cut of a diamond not only refers to its shape but also to how well the diamond has been cut. A well-cut diamond reflects light beautifully, making it appear more brilliant. Consider cuts that have been celebrated in famous diamonds, like the emerald cut of the Graff Emerald or the cushion cut of the Hope Diamond.
  • Color: Famous diamonds range from colorless to vividly colored. Decide on the color grade that appeals to you most, keeping in mind that colorless diamonds (graded D-F) are rare and more expensive, much like the Cullinan Diamond.
  • Clarity: Diamonds like the Centenary Diamond are famed for their flawless clarity, but such perfection comes at a premium. Evaluate clarity grades to find a balance between beauty and budget. Remember, many inclusions are not visible to the naked eye.
  • Carat Weight: The allure of famous diamonds often comes from their impressive size. However, when choosing your engagement ring, consider how a diamond’s carat weight affects its overall appearance and price. A smaller, well-cut diamond can often appear more luminous than a larger, poorly cut one.
• Tip 2:  Opt for a Setting That Enhances the Diamond
• The right setting can make a diamond appear larger and more luminous, echoing the grandeur of famous diamonds like the Regent or the Orloff. A halo setting, for instance, can enhance the center stone’s appearance, making it seem larger and adding to its sparkle.
• Tip 3:  Pay Attention to Diamond Provenance
• Just as the history and origin of famous diamonds add to their allure, knowing the provenance of your engagement ring’s diamond can ensure ethical sourcing and authenticity. While the histories of diamonds like the Koh-i-Noor are steeped in controversy, today’s buyers have the advantage of choosing conflict-free diamonds that are certified.
• Tip 4:  Consider Unique Diamond Colors
• Inspired by famous colored diamonds like the Hope Diamond or the Pink Star, don’t shy away from exploring colored diamonds. Although colorless diamonds are traditional, colored diamonds can offer a unique, personal touch to an engagement ring, making it stand out.
• Tip 5:  Inspect the Diamond Under Different Lighting Conditions
• Diamonds can appear differently under various types of light. To get a true sense of your diamond’s appearance, examine it under natural light, LED lighting, and incandescent light. This mirrors the diverse conditions under which famous diamonds are displayed, from museum lighting to daylight.

Now that you’ve got these practical tips, use Jeweler AI below to find the perfect engagement ring that suits your style and budget:

The Lore of Legendary Gems 

Why do some diamonds become infinitely more famous than others? While there are plenty of famous diamonds we can name, there are many, many more that will be mined, cut, bought, and worn with significantly less fanfare.

For starters, famous diamonds tend to be rare in some way. The most obvious rare trait is size – or, more specifically, carat weight. Big diamonds are a lot less common than small diamonds, and the bigger they are, the rarer they are. Some of the most famous diamonds in the world are famous because of the fact that they were hundreds of carats when they were mined from the earth and retain a great deal of that weight even after they are cut and polished into a perfect shape. In the US, the average size for an engagement ring diamond is 1 carat (or thereabouts), so consider how fast our socks catch fire when we see a 50 carat diamond, or bigger…

But there are other ways for a diamond to become famous. Fancy color diamonds in rare hues will often attract a lot of attention, even if it’s just from the global community of collectors. Red and pink fancy color diamonds in particular highly sought after, and very rare. When a beautiful pink diamond is discovered, the community gets excited.

Color and Clarity: The Soul of the Stone

Clarity is another big one. Flawless diamonds are hugely rare. It is incredibly unlikely that a natural diamond will have formed without any inclusions visible under 10x magnification. It happens, but not often. Flawless diamonds really do get those butterflies fluttering.

So, with that in mind, here are some of the most famous diamonds in the world—and precisely what makes them so popular.

From Rough to Radiance: The Art of Diamond Crafting 

Something that unites every single one of the diamonds we mentioned is the fact that, eventually, they are all cut. At times, this means sacrificing a lot of that original carat weight – for instance, the Cullinan II is just a little over 10% of the weight of the rough stone – but, our love affair is with sparkling, impeccably proportioned and polished diamonds. Rough stones only hold so much appeal, and only for so long.

So, why does it take so long? It took 18 months to cut and Polish the Lesedi la Rona. Even when you’re handling millions of dollars’ worth of diamond, isn’t that a pretty long time?

Not exactly. 

The Mastery Behind the Cut 

Even with the precision tools available to gemologists today, the process of cutting and polishing precious and exceptionally valuable diamonds is meticulous and time-consuming for a lot of reasons:

• Careful planning is required to determine the best way to cut the rough diamond to achieve optimal results and maximize value. There’s no room for error here. 
• Large diamonds often have complex internal structures. Understanding the internal flaws, inclusions, and stress points within the diamond requires detailed analysis using advanced imaging technologies.
• Even with modern tools, the process of cutting, faceting, and polishing must be executed with extreme care to avoid damaging the diamond or losing carat weight.
• Every single step, cut, and decision needs to be analyzed and carefully planned. There’s a lot at stake when you’re working with a once-in-a-lifetime find. 

Ethical Brilliance: The Shift Towards Responsible Luxury 

The older diamonds in this list have another thing in common – their backstories tend to feature their fair share of controversy, particularly when it comes to ownership. The British royal families crown jewels are often under fire for featuring diamonds that many believe rightfully belong to the countries from which they were mined. 

These diamonds often passed into the possession of the British royal family – or other high-status owners – during periods of oppression and occupation. As a result, many consider them to have been stolen. 

These days, things happen above board. The industry has revolutionised itself since those early days back in the 15th and 16th centuries – or even as recently as the 20th century.

The Impact of Ethical Sourcing

As an example, the Pink Star was mined by the De Beers mining group – a leading name in the industry that emphasises sustainability and ethical sourcing, and does a great deal of work to empower smaller communities, create job opportunities, and work with local governments to ensure that their activities can be productive, rather than harmful.

Can Lab Grown Diamonds Achieve Legendary Status?

When it comes to the discovery of super add diamonds, we have yet to see any lab grown diamonds make the same level of excitement within the global diamond community as natural diamonds. A big part of a natural diamonds appeal lies in the fact that it is an unlikely and rare product of nature’s raw forces. When a diamond has been grown in a lab, no matter how impressive it is, it just can’t compete with the natural diamond in terms of star quality.

Conclusion

All diamonds are marvels of nature when you think about it, but some are a lot more marvellous than others. Famous diamonds like the Cullinan and the pink star have set an incredibly high bar for collectors who want to get their hands on stones that come even remotely close to emulating the beauty and rarity of these top examples. 

As someone in the market for a diamond ring, what should your key takeaway be? Hopefully, you haven’t got your heart set on a second coming of the Lesedi La Rona. Regular (good quality) diamonds still feature all the top qualities of the world’s rarest examples – sparkle, clarity, great color, and a beautiful cut. Just pay attention to the Four Cs, as usual. 

7 Frequently Asked Questions about Famous Diamonds

• Q: What Makes a Diamond Famous?
• A: A combination of factors contributes to a diamond’s fame, including its size, color, history, ownership, and unique characteristics. Diamonds like the Hope Diamond and Cullinan Diamond are celebrated for their exceptional qualities and intriguing histories.
• Q: Are Famous Diamonds the Most Expensive?
• A: While many famous diamonds are indeed among the most expensive due to their rarity and unique features, not all expensive diamonds are famous. The value is also determined by current market demand, diamond quality, and historical significance.
• Q: Can I Own a Replica of a Famous Diamond?
• A: Yes, there are replicas of famous diamonds available, crafted to mimic the appearance of these renowned gems without the astronomical price tag. These can be found in various materials, including cubic zirconia and lab-created diamonds.
• Q: How Are Diamonds Cut to Maximize Brilliance?
• A: Diamonds are carefully cut using precise mathematical formulas to maximize their brilliance, fire, and scintillation. The most popular cut for maximizing brilliance is the round brilliant cut, designed to reflect as much light as possible.
• Q: What’s the Rarest Diamond Color?
• A: Red diamonds are considered the rarest in the world, with only a handful known to exist. Their rarity, combined with their striking color, makes them highly sought after and valuable.
• Q: Are Colored Diamonds as Durable as Colorless Diamonds?
• A: Yes, colored diamonds share the same hardness and durability as colorless diamonds, making them equally suitable for jewelry. The color in diamonds does not affect their structural integrity.
• Q: How Can I Verify the Authenticity of a Diamond?
• A: The best way to verify a diamond’s authenticity is through a certificate from a reputable gemological laboratory, such as the GIA (Gemological Institute of America). These certificates provide a detailed analysis of the diamond’s characteristics and confirm its authenticity.

Discover Your Perfect Gem with JewelerAI: Explore Famous Diamonds Tailored to Your Taste!

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100 Most Famous Diamonds and Legendary Gems in the World

1. Hope Diamond: A Curse and a Crown 
   Even if you don’t consider yourself much of a diamond aficionado, it’s likely you’ve heard of the Hope Diamond. Originating from India – from a now-closed mine known as Kollur – this 45.52 carat diamond features a deep blue fancy color more vibrant than even the most perfect sapphire. If you’ve seen the movie Titanic, then it’s likely you will notice a strong resemblance between the Heart Of The Ocean and the Hope Diamond, which is thought to have inspired the film’s costume and prop team.
   Many people have owned the Hope Diamond at one time or another, including Louis XIV. At that point in history, it wasn’t known as the Hope Diamond – that came in the 1830s, when Henry Phillip Hope purchased (and renamed) the diamond. 
   You can actually see the hope diamond for yourself if you ever find yourself in Washington DC. It is on display at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History.
2. Cullinan Diamond: Discovered in South Africa in 1905, the Cullinan remains the largest rough diamond ever found, even though nigh-on 120 years have passed between then and now. Before it was cut, it weighed 3,106 carats, which equates to more than 620 grams or 1.3 pounds of solid diamond. 
   The mine was owned by Sir Thomas Cullinan, which is why the diamond received its name. King Edward VII was the first to receive the diamond, after which it was cut. Nine major diamonds were created, and almost 100 smaller diamonds.
   Today, if someone mentions the Cullinan diamond, they are often referring to Cullinan I – AKA, the Great Star of Africa, which weighs 530.4 carats. It is set within the Sovereign’s Sceptre with Cross, which is one of the British Crown Jewels. It spends most of its time in the Tower of London, along with Cullinan II (317.4 carats). 
3. Koh-i-Noor: The Koh-i-Noor, meaning “Mountain of Light” in Persian, has a long and controversial history. Originating from the Kollur mine in India, it was acquired by the British Empire during the annexation of Punjab in 1849 and has been part of the British Crown Jewels since. The diamond weighs 105.6 carats. Its ownership is disputed by several countries, including India, Pakistan, Iran, and Afghanistan.
   The Koh-i-Noor was discovered in the 1200s and, from that moment on, passed between Mughal to Persian, Afghan, and Sikh rulers. The reason for that tumultuous history of ownership? It’s complicated, but popular thought dictates that the diamond carries a curse ready to before anyone who wears or owns it. Interestingly, the curse is only thought to affect men.
   That’s why, more recently, there have been plenty of instances of female members of the British royal family wearing the Koh-i-Noor diamond. Ownership (controversially) passed to Queen Victoria in the 19^th century during the British annexation of Punjab. 
   Again, this diamond is permanently housed within the Tower of London.
4. Sancy Diamond: The Sancy Diamond is a 55.23-carat pale yellow diamond that is believed to have originated from India. It is known for its unusual cut, lacking a pavilion and instead being cut with symmetrical facets. It has been owned by several European royals, including Charles the Bold, King Henry III of France, and James I of England. It was last reported to be part of the Louvre’s collection.
5. Regent Diamond: Discovered in India in 1698, the Regent Diamond weighs 140.64 carats. It was purchased by Philippe II, Duke of Orléans, in 1717 and became part of the French Crown Jewels. Known for its perfect cut and exceptional clarity, it is displayed in the Louvre Museum in Paris.
6. Orloff Diamond: The Orloff Diamond is a nearly 190-carat gem with a bluish-green tint, rumored to have been stolen from a Hindu temple where it served as one of the eyes in a statue of a deity. It was acquired by Count Grigory Orlov, who gifted it to Empress Catherine the Great of Russia. It is now part of the Kremlin’s Diamond Fund.
7. Great Mogul Diamond: Reportedly discovered in the 17th century, the Great Mogul Diamond was said to weigh 280 carats. It was named after Shah Jahan, the Mogul emperor who built the Taj Mahal. The diamond’s current whereabouts are unknown, and it is considered lost to history.
8. Dresden Green Diamond: The Dresden Green Diamond is a rare 41-carat natural green diamond. It was acquired by Augustus II the Strong of Poland in the early 18th century and is part of the Dresden Green Vault in Germany. Its green color is natural, attributed to natural radiation exposure.
9. Agra Diamond: This famous pink diamond has a rich history, once belonging to the Mughal emperors. It weighs approximately 32 carats. The diamond was supposedly seized by the British in the mid-19th century during their colonial rule over India and has changed hands among various private collectors since.
10. Idol’s Eye Diamond: Weighing about 70.21 carats, the Idol’s Eye is a bluish diamond with a storied past, including a myth that it was plucked from the eye of a statue. However, its documented history only traces back to the mid-19th century. It has been part of various private collections over the years.
11. Blue Moon Diamond: Discovered in South Africa in January 2014, the Blue Moon Diamond is a 12.03-carat gem known for its vivid blue color and exceptional clarity. It was sold at a Sotheby’s auction in Geneva for a record price of $48.5 million in November 2015 to Hong Kong billionaire Joseph Lau, who renamed it “Blue Moon of Josephine” after his daughter.
12. Centenary Diamond: Unveiled by De Beers in 1988 during their centennial celebration, the Centenary Diamond weighs 273.85 carats and is known for its top color grade (D) and flawless clarity. It was discovered in the Premier Mine of South Africa in 1986. The diamond’s current owner and value remain undisclosed.
13. Pink Star Diamond: Previously known as the Steinmetz Pink, the Pink Star Diamond weighs 59.60 carats. It was mined by De Beers in Africa in 1999 and cut over a period of two years. It set a record in April 2017 when it was sold at a Sotheby’s auction in Hong Kong for $71.2 million to the Chow Tai Fook Enterprises, making it the most expensive diamond ever sold at auction.
14. Moussaieff Red Diamond: The largest known red diamond, the Moussaieff Red weighs 5.11 carats. It was discovered by a Brazilian farmer in the 1990s. Its intense red color is due to the presence of nitrogen in its crystal structure. The diamond is currently owned by Moussaieff Jewellers Ltd.
15. Graff Pink Diamond: Weighing 24.78 carats, the Graff Pink is a rare pink diamond that Laurence Graff purchased at auction in 2010 for $46 million, renaming it the “Graff Pink.” Its exact origins are not publicly disclosed, but it is celebrated for its vivid pink color and high clarity.
16. Wittelsbach-Graff Diamond: This 31.06-carat deep blue diamond has a history tied to European royalty. Originally part of the Austrian and then the Bavarian crown jewels, it was acquired by Laurence Graff in 2008. Graff had the diamond recut, which sparked some controversy among historians. It is known for its clarity and rare blue color.
17. Heart of Eternity Diamond: Part of the De Beers Millennium Jewels collection, the Heart of Eternity is a 27.64-carat diamond with a fancy vivid blue color, one of the rarest diamond colors. It was mined in the Premier Mine of South Africa, which is known for producing blue diamonds.
18. Millennium Star Diamond: The Millennium Star is a D-color, internally and externally flawless pear-shaped diamond weighing 203.04 carats. It was unveiled in October 1999 as part of De Beers’ Millennium Jewels collection. The diamond was discovered in the Democratic Republic of Congo in 1990 and took over three years to cut.
19. The Golden Jubilee Diamond: Discovered in 1985 in the Premier Mine of South Africa, the Golden Jubilee is the largest cut and faceted diamond in the world, weighing 545.67 carats. It was presented to King Bhumibol Adulyadej of Thailand in 1997 as part of the celebrations for his 50th year on the throne. The diamond was cut by Gabriel Tolkowsky and is known for its fancy yellow-brown color.
20. The Archduke Joseph Diamond: This 76.45-carat diamond has a storied history that includes ownership by Archduke Joseph August of Austria. It was sold at auction in November 2012 for $21.5 million. The diamond originates from the Golconda mines of India, famous for producing diamonds of exceptional quality and clarity.
21. The Pink Legacy Diamond: This remarkable 18.96-carat fancy vivid pink diamond, known for its exceptional purity and vibrant color, was sold for $50.3 million at a Christie’s auction in November 2018 to the luxury brand Harry Winston. Its color is so intense and uniform that it has been classified as “fancy vivid” by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), a rare designation given to less than 1% of pink diamonds.
22. The Spirit of de Grisogono Diamond: Mined in Central Africa, the Spirit of de Grisogono is the largest cut black diamond in the world, weighing 312.24 carats. The rough diamond weighed approximately 587 carats before being cut. It was set in a ring with 702 smaller white diamonds totaling 36.69 carats, set in white gold. The diamond was cut using the traditional Mogul cutting technique by Swiss jeweler De Grisogono.
23. The Blue Empress Diamond: Part of an exquisite necklace, the Blue Empress is a rare blue pear-shaped diamond weighing 14 carats. It was extracted from the Premier Diamond Mine in South Africa. The necklace that houses the Blue Empress is adorned with white diamonds and was sold by the House of Graff. Its exact price and current owner remain undisclosed, highlighting its exclusivity.
24. The Ocean Dream Diamond: This 5.51-carat fancy deep blue-green diamond is notable for its unique color, a result of exposure to natural radiation. The Ocean Dream was showcased as part of the Smithsonian’s “Splendor of Diamonds” exhibition. Its distinctive hue makes it one of the rarest diamonds in the world.
25. The Mouawad Splendour Diamond: Part of the impressive collection of the Mouawad family, this 101.84-carat diamond is classified as a D-color, internally flawless gem. It was acquired by Robert Mouawad at a Sotheby’s auction in 1990 for $12.76 million. The diamond is known for its exceptional cut and clarity, making it a masterpiece of nature and craftsmanship.
26. The Lesotho Promise Diamond: Discovered in the Letseng mine in Lesotho in 2006, this 603-carat rough diamond was the 15th largest diamond ever found. It was purchased for $12.4 million by the Graff Diamonds company, which subsequently cut it into 26 D-flawless diamonds totaling 224 carats. The largest gem cut from it is a 75-carat pear-shaped diamond.
27. The Incomparable Diamond: Weighing 407.48 carats, the Incomparable Diamond is the third largest cut diamond in the world. Discovered by a young girl in the Democratic Republic of Congo in the 1980s in a pile of mining rubble, it was cut into a unique trilliant shape. Its yellowish-brown color and immense size make it one of the most extraordinary diamonds.
28. The Constellation Diamond: In May 2016, the Constellation was sold for $63 million, making it one of the most expensive rough diamonds ever sold. Weighing 813 carats, it was unearthed in Botswana at the Karowe mine. The diamond is known for its exceptional clarity and carat weight, symbolizing the pinnacle of natural beauty and rarity in diamonds.
29. The Graff Lesedi La Rona Diamond: In Setswana, Lesedi La Rona translates to ‘Our Light’. As of the time of writing, Lesedi la Rona is the third largest diamond ever discovered, weighing 1,109 carats. It was discovered far more recently than many of the other diamonds mentioned in this article, in 2015. 
    It was cut over the course of 18 months into a main stone weighing 302.37 carats. Not only is it very large, but it also has impeccable clarity (IF, as given by the GIA) and color (D, the highest color grade). 
    As we mentioned above, it’s not just size that makes a diamond famous. The Pink Star is the perfect example of this fact. Although it is very large – 56.60 carats, to be exact – the Pink Star’s fame largely stems from, you guessed it, its beautiful and rare pink coloration. 
    It was mined by De Beers in 1999 and took almost two years to cut and polish. Not only did it receive a Fancy Vivid Pink grade from the GIA, but it also received a clarity grade of IF. 
    It was sold by Sotheby’s for more than $70 million in 2017. 
30. The Winston Blue Diamond: Formerly known as the Blue Diamond, this 13.22-carat flawless vivid blue diamond was acquired by Harry Winston Inc. for $23.8 million in May 2014. Renamed the Winston Blue, it is known for its exceptional color and clarity, making it one of the most prized blue diamonds in the world.
31. The Red Cross Diamond: This 205.07-carat canary yellow diamond was found in the Kimberley mines of South Africa in 1901. It is notable for the Maltese cross that is visible when the diamond is viewed top-down. It was sold at auction in 1918 to benefit the British Red Cross Society and the Order of St. John. Its most recent sale was in 1973, and it remains a symbol of philanthropy in the diamond world.
32. The De Beers Diamond: Found in the Kimberley mines of South Africa in 1888, the De Beers Diamond is a 234.65-carat yellow diamond. It played a significant role in the early days of the De Beers mining company, founded by Cecil Rhodes. The diamond is historically significant as it symbolizes the start of the De Beers company’s dominance in the diamond industry.
33. The Star of the Season Diamond: Weighing 100.10 carats, the Star of the Season is a D-color, internally flawless pear-shaped diamond. It was sold for $16.5 million at a Sotheby’s auction in Geneva in May 1995, setting a world record at the time for the highest price per carat for a colorless diamond.
34. The Queen of Holland Diamond: This 135.92-carat diamond has a rich yellow color and a cushion cut. It was named in honor of Queen Wilhelmina of the Netherlands. Its origins trace back to the South African mines, and it has been part of various royal and distinguished collections throughout its history.
35. The Blue Heart Diamond: Mined in South Africa in 1908, the Blue Heart Diamond weighs 30.62 carats and has a rare deep blue color. It was cut into a heart shape and has passed through various owners, including Cartier and Harry Winston. It is currently housed in the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History.
36. The Star of South Africa Diamond: Discovered in 1869 by a shepherd boy in South Africa, this 47.69-carat diamond was one of the first major diamond finds in the country. It sparked the “Kimberley diamond rush,” leading to the establishment of the diamond mining industry in South Africa. It was cut into a pear shape and is also known as the “Dudley Diamond” after its one-time owner, the Earl of Dudley.
37. The Walska Briolette Diamond: Named after the famous opera singer Ganna Walska, this diamond features a distinctive briolette cut. Weighing approximately 95 carats, it was part of a magnificent brooch that could also be converted into two separate pieces of jewelry. The diamond’s unique cut and the versatility of the jewelry piece highlight its exceptional craftsmanship.
38. The Tiffany Yellow Diamond: Discovered in 1878 in the Kimberley mines of South Africa, the Tiffany Yellow Diamond weighs 128.54 carats and is one of the largest yellow diamonds ever found. It was acquired by Charles Tiffany, founder of Tiffany & Co., and has been on display at various exhibitions. The diamond is known for its vibrant color and exceptional clarity.
39. The Premier Rose Diamond: Mined in 1978 in the Premier Mine of South Africa, the Premier Rose Diamond weighs 137.02 carats. It is known for its exceptional beauty, featuring a pear shape with great clarity and color. The diamond was named after the Premier mine and the wife of the diamond cutter, Rose.
40. The Princie Diamond: Discovered over 300 years ago in the Golconda mines of India, the Princie Diamond weighs 34.65 carats. It is a fancy intense pink diamond with a cushion cut. The diamond was named “Princie” in honor of the 14-year-old Prince of Baroda, who attended a party at Van Cleef & Arpels in Paris where the diamond was first showcased in 1960. It was sold at auction in 2013 for $39.3 million.
41. The Pumpkin Diamond: This extraordinary diamond, weighing 5.54 carats, is one of the world’s largest and most vivid orange diamonds. It was discovered in Central Africa and purchased at auction in 1997 by Harry Winston for $1.3 million. The Pumpkin Diamond is set in a ring between two white diamonds and has been showcased in various exhibits, including the Smithsonian’s “The Splendor of Diamonds” exhibition.
42. The Star of Sierra Leone Diamond: Discovered on February 14, 1972, in the Diminico mine in Sierra Leone, this impressive 968.9-carat diamond ranks as one of the largest gem-quality rough diamonds ever found. It was purchased by Harry Winston, who cut it into 17 stones of various sizes. The largest stone, a flawless pear-shaped diamond, weighs 53.96 carats.
43. The Earth Star Diamond: Mined in South Africa in 1967, the Earth Star Diamond was cut from a 248.9-carat rough stone into a pear-shaped brown diamond weighing 111.59 carats. Its deep brown color, reminiscent of a cognac, and its exceptional size make it one of the most notable brown diamonds in the world. It was sold for over $900,000 in 1983, a record price at the time for a brown diamond.
44. The Blue Lili Diamond: Celebrated for its stunning blue color, the Blue Lili is a rare and exquisite diamond, though specific details about its size, ownership, and history are less widely known compared to other famous blue diamonds. Its name and the admiration it receives underscore the allure and mystery surrounding colored diamonds.
45. The Victoria Transvaal Diamond: This 67.89-carat brownish-yellow diamond was found in the Transvaal, South Africa. It was cut from a rough stone weighing 240 carats and is known for its appearance in the 1952 movie “Tarzan’s Savage Fury.” The diamond has been set in various pieces of jewelry over the years, including a necklace displayed at the Smithsonian Institution.
46. The Florentine Diamond: With a history dating back to the 16th century, the Florentine Diamond is a lost 137.27-carat yellow diamond with a light green overtone. It was part of the Habsburg Crown Jewels and has a complex history involving ownership by various European families. Its whereabouts have been unknown since the end of World War I.
47. The Shah Diamond: Originating from the Golconda mines in India in the 16th century, the Shah Diamond is not famed for its size (88.7 carats) but for its historical inscriptions, which record its ownership by three Shahs of Persia. It is currently housed in the Kremlin Armory in Moscow, Russia, symbolizing centuries of history and conquest.
48. The Jonker Diamond: Discovered in January 1934 at the Elandsfontein mine in South Africa, the Jonker rough diamond weighed 726 carats. Harry Winston purchased the rough stone and cut it into 13 pieces; the largest, Jonker I, is a 142.9-carat diamond. The cutting process was a media sensation, emphasizing the diamond’s exceptional quality.
49. The Porter Rhodes Diamond: This 54-carat diamond is named after its discoverer, the Englishman Colonel Porter Rhodes. It is known for its exceptional clarity and cut, making it one of the world’s most celebrated diamonds. The Porter Rhodes is a D-color, virtually flawless diamond, emphasizing its distinction among white diamonds.
50. The Jubilee Diamond: Originally known as the Reitz Diamond, this 245.35-carat diamond was discovered in 1895 in the Jagersfontein Mine, South Africa. It was renamed the Jubilee in honor of Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee. The Jubilee Diamond is known for its cushion shape and was one of the largest diamonds in the world at the time of its discovery.
51. The Kimberley Diamond: The Kimberley Diamond weighs approximately 55 carats and is known for its flawless clarity and fine color. It was discovered in the Kimberley mine in South Africa, which played a significant role in the history of diamond mining. The Kimberley Diamond has been cut into a flawless emerald cut, enhancing its beauty and brilliance.
52. The Spoonmaker’s Diamond (Kasikci): This legendary 86-carat pear-shaped diamond is set in a silver setting surrounded by a double row of 49 old mine-cut diamonds. It is part of the collection in the Topkapi Palace Museum, Istanbul. The diamond’s history is filled with myths, including stories that it was found in a rubbish heap and traded for three spoons, hence its name.
53. The Eureka Diamond: Weighing 21.25 carats after cutting, the Eureka Diamond is notable for being the first diamond discovered in South Africa in 1867 by a 15-year-old boy named Erasmus Jacobs. This discovery near the Orange River marked the beginning of the South African diamond rush. The Eureka Diamond is currently displayed at the Kimberley Mine Museum in South Africa.
54. The Star of India: The Star of India is a 563.35-carat star sapphire, one of the largest in the world, known for its asterism. Mined in Sri Lanka and over two billion years old, it is renowned for its size, clarity, and the sharp star pattern it displays. The gem is part of the collection of the American Museum of Natural History in New York.
55. The Star of David Diamond: This diamond is celebrated for its symbolic shape, representing a significant achievement in diamond cutting to create a Star of David shape. However, specific details about its size, ownership, and history are not widely publicized, reflecting the private nature of such unique gems.
56. The Akbar Shah Diamond: Also known as Jehan Shah, this diamond dates back to the Mughal era in India. It weighs approximately 116 carats and has a storied past, including ownership by Mughal emperors. The diamond is known for its elongated shape and historic inscriptions, which add to its allure and historical significance.
57. The Beau Sancy Diamond: Weighing 34.98 carats, the Beau Sancy is a pear-shaped diamond that has been passed among European royalty since the late 16th century. It was sold at a Sotheby’s auction in Geneva for $9.7 million in May 2012. The diamond’s history includes ownership by Mary, Queen of Scots, and it has adorned various royal crowns and jewels.
58. The Black Orlov Diamond: Weighing 67.50 carats, the Black Orlov, also known as the “Eye of Brahma,” is a cushion-cut diamond rumored to be cursed. It is said to have been stolen from a Hindu statue in India, contributing to its mysterious allure. The diamond has been displayed in various exhibitions, highlighting its deep color and intriguing history.
59. The Blue Giant of the Orient: Discovered in Sri Lanka in 1907, this 486.52-carat sapphire is the largest faceted blue sapphire in the world. Its history is somewhat mysterious, with the gem disappearing from public view for many years before reappearing in the hands of a private collector. The Blue Giant of the Orient is celebrated for its size, color, and the mystery surrounding its whereabouts.
60. The Briolette of India: Known as one of the oldest known diamonds, this briolette-cut diamond weighs approximately 90.38 carats. Its history dates back to at least the 12th century, and it is believed to have originated from India. The Briolette of India is notable for its unique cut and clarity, making it a prized piece in the collections of various owners over the centuries.
61. The Centenary of Independence Diamond: This unique diamond was created to commemorate Brazil’s centenary of independence from Portugal in 1822. Specific details regarding its size and current whereabouts are not widely publicized, reflecting the exclusive nature of such commemorative gems.
62. The Chopard Blue Diamond: This ring features a stunning oval-shaped blue diamond surrounded by white diamonds, showcasing Chopard’s exceptional craftsmanship. The blue diamond’s exact weight and history are closely guarded, emphasizing the luxury and exclusivity associated with Chopard’s creations.
63. The Cora Sun-Drop Diamond: Weighing 110.3 carats, the Cora Sun-Drop is the largest known yellow pear-shaped diamond. It was sold at auction in 2011 for over $10 million, highlighting its rarity and the vibrant color that makes it a standout among colored diamonds.
64. The Delaire Sunrise Diamond: As the largest square emerald cut fancy vivid yellow diamond, the Delaire Sunrise showcases extraordinary brilliance and clarity. Specific details about its weight and the craftsmanship involved in its cutting reflect the diamond’s exceptional quality and the expertise required to bring out its beauty.
65. The Dresden White Diamond: This 49.71-carat diamond is known for its exceptional purity and brilliance. It is part of the Green Vault collection in Dresden, Germany, and is celebrated as one of the most famous white diamonds. Its history and the precision of its cut highlight the enduring allure of perfectly white diamonds.
66. The Emperor Maximilian Diamond: This historic 41.94-carat, cushion-shaped diamond was once owned by Emperor Maximilian of Mexico before his execution in 1867. After changing several hands, it was sold to its current owners, Laurence Graff. Known for its deep color and exceptional clarity, its history reflects a tale of royalty, tragedy, and the allure of gemstones.
67. The Empress Eugenie Diamond: A magnificent 51-carat diamond once owned by Empress Eugenie, wife of Napoleon III of France. The diamond, known for its beauty and historical significance, has been part of various collections over the years, including the French Crown Jewels. It showcases the opulence and elegance of the French imperial court in the 19th century.
68. The English Dresden Diamond: This gem is part of the historic collection housed in the Green Vault in Dresden, Germany. While specific details about its size and discovery year are less documented, it shares its name with the more famous Dresden Green Diamond, suggesting a connection to the rich gemological heritage of Europe and the significance of the Dresden collection.
69. The Excelsior Diamond: Discovered in 1893 at the Jagersfontein Mine in South Africa, the Excelsior was the largest diamond in the world at that time, weighing 995.2 carats. Its extraordinary size and blue-white color made it a gem of unparalleled beauty. However, it was cut into smaller stones, the largest of which is the Excelsior I, a 69.68-carat gem.
70. The Golden Eye Diamond: This 43.51-carat Fancy Intense Yellow diamond has a tumultuous history, involving theft and a complex recovery operation. The diamond was eventually auctioned by the U.S. government, fetching a significant sum. Its vivid color and intriguing backstory make it a unique gem in the diamond world.
71. The Graff Pink Orchid Diamond: A masterpiece of Graff’s collection, the Pink Orchid is a rare pink diamond known for its striking hue and exquisite craftsmanship. While the exact details of its size and discovery are curated by Graff, it represents the pinnacle of luxury and the extraordinary rarity of pink diamonds.
72. The Graff Sunflower Diamond: Another jewel in Graff’s crown, the Sunflower Diamond is celebrated for its vibrant yellow color and sunflower-like cut, embodying the brand’s commitment to excellence and the allure of colored diamonds. Its specific carat weight and the year of discovery are part of Graff’s exclusive collection.
73. The Graff Vivid Yellow Diamond: Known for its intense yellow color, this diamond epitomizes the beauty and rarity of vivid yellow gems. The Graff Vivid Yellow, weighing 100.09 carats, showcases the exceptional skill in diamond cutting and selection that Graff is renowned for, making it one of the most spectacular yellow diamonds.
74. The Grand Duchess Vladimir Diamond: This diamond was part of the collection of the Grand Duchess Vladimir of Russia, known for its royal provenance and historical significance. The collection, which included various jewels, was famed for its luxury and the story of its escape from Russia during the revolution.
75. The Great Chrysanthemum Diamond: Discovered in South Africa in 1963, this 104.15-carat, pear-shaped, fancy brown diamond is known for its unique color, resembling the golden petals of a chrysanthemum. Its cutting and polishing showcased the diamond’s natural beauty, making it a notable gem in the world of colored diamonds.
76. The Hortensia Diamond: This 20-carat, peach-colored diamond is part of the French Crown Jewels, named after Queen Hortense de Beauharnais. It boasts a rich history, having adorned various pieces of royal jewelry, and is known for its illustrious past and connection to French royalty.
77. The Jacob Diamond: Weighing approximately 184.75 carats, the Jacob (or Great White) Diamond was once owned by the Nizams of Hyderabad, India. It is known for its size, clarity, and the legal battles it sparked between India and the heirs of the Nizam. The diamond is now part of India’s national treasures.
78. The Kazanjian Red Diamond: This 5.05-carat red diamond, discovered in South Africa in the 1920s, is one of the rarest and most valuable diamonds due to its deep red color. It has been exhibited around the world, including at the American Museum of Natural History, showcasing its unique beauty and rarity.
79. The Letšeng Star Diamond: Found in the Letšeng mine in Lesotho, this 550-carat diamond is celebrated for its exceptional quality and size, making it one of the largest rough diamonds. The Letšeng mine is known for producing high-quality diamonds, and the Letšeng Star is a testament to the mine’s remarkable output.
80. The Light of Letšeng Diamond: Another significant find from the Letšeng mine, this diamond is renowned for its size and quality. Specific details about its carat weight and the year of discovery highlight the mine’s consistent production of large and high-quality diamonds.
81. The Millennium Sapphire: Known as one of the world’s largest sapphires, this gem is celebrated for its deep blue beauty and significant size. While not a diamond, the Millennium Sapphire stands out for its unique allure and the craftsmanship involved in its cutting and polishing.
82. The Moon of Baroda: A 24.04-carat yellow diamond with a storied past, it was once owned by the Gaekwads of Baroda, India. Marilyn Monroe famously wore the diamond, adding to its glamour. Its history spans several centuries, showcasing its allure across different eras and cultures.
83. The Mouawad Mondera Diamond: Part of the renowned Mouawad collection, this white diamond is known for its flawless clarity and exquisite cut. The Mouawad firm is famous for its luxurious jewelry pieces and the exceptional quality of its diamonds, making the Mouawad Mondera a highlight of their collection.
84. The Mouna Diamond: Celebrated for its intense yellow color, the Mouna Diamond exemplifies the beauty and rarity of colored diamonds. Specific details about its size and the year of discovery add to the allure of this exceptional gem.
85. The Musaieff Blue Diamond: A trilliant-cut, 5.11-carat blue diamond known for its vivid color and clarity. Owned by Musaieff Jewellers, this diamond is among the most valuable blue diamonds due to its rare color and the precision of its cut, showcasing the beauty of naturally colored diamonds.
86. The Niarchos Diamond: Named after the Greek shipping magnate Stavros Niarchos, this 128.25-carat diamond is one of the largest and most flawless diamonds. It represents the epitome of luxury and elegance, reflecting the wealth and opulence associated with its namesake.
87. The Nur-Ul-Ain Diamond: A central piece of the Iranian Crown Jewels, this approximately 60-carat, pale pink diamond is steeped in history and romance. It symbolizes centuries of Persian royalty and showcases the enduring allure of colored diamonds with historical significance.
88. The Ocean Paradise Diamond: This unique gem is celebrated for its distinctive blue-green color, reminiscent of tropical seas. While specific details about its discovery, size, and current owner remain less publicized, the Ocean Paradise Diamond stands out in the gemstone world for its captivating hue, which is rare among diamonds. Its name reflects the enchanting colors of oceanic waters, making it a sought-after piece among collectors and enthusiasts for its natural beauty and rarity.
89. The Okavango Blue Diamond: Originating from the famous Okavango Delta region in Botswana, a renowned source of high-quality diamonds, this gem is celebrated for its brilliant blue color and exceptional clarity. Unearthed in recent years, the Okavango Blue Diamond showcases the geological richness of Botswana’s diamond fields. Its exact carat weight and current ownership are part of its allure, representing the natural beauty and rarity of blue diamonds found in this unique ecological setting.
90. The Oppenheimer Blue Diamond: Named after the famous diamond magnate family, the Oppenheimer, this diamond set a record at auction in May 2016, selling for over $50 million. Weighing 14.62 carats, this Fancy Vivid Blue diamond is celebrated for its impeccable color and clarity. It epitomizes the allure of blue diamonds and the luxury associated with the Oppenheimer name, standing as a testament to the extraordinary value and beauty of colored gemstones.
91. The Paragon Diamond: A flawless 137.82-carat, D-color, and Flawless clarity gem, the Paragon Diamond is known for its exceptional size and cut, comprising 7 sides making it one of the most unique diamonds in the world. Owned by the famed jeweler Graff Diamonds, the Paragon exemplifies diamond perfection and is often showcased in exhibitions around the world as a masterpiece of natural beauty and expert craftsmanship.
92. The Peacock Diamond: Although specific details about the Peacock Diamond’s size, discovery, and ownership are not widely documented, its name suggests a diamond of remarkable color play, possibly exhibiting a spectrum of hues reminiscent of a peacock’s feathers. This rarity would make it a fascinating subject of admiration in the gemological community, highlighting the diverse color phenomena that can occur in natural diamonds.
93. The Pink Orchid Diamond: Specifics such as the carat weight and the year of discovery of the Pink Orchid Diamond are curated, but its name and description suggest it is a diamond of exceptional beauty, known for its rare and captivating pink hue. Such diamonds are highly prized for their aesthetic appeal and rarity, often fetching high prices at auctions and becoming centerpieces of prestigious jewelry collections.
94. The Pink Promise Diamond: This intensely colored pink diamond is celebrated for its vibrant hue and exceptional clarity, making it a symbol of promise and love. The Pink Promise Diamond is a 14.93-carat Fancy Vivid Pink diamond that was sold at auction for $32 million in November 2017, showcasing the high value and desirability of pink diamonds in the gemstone market.
95. The Pink Sunrise Diamond: This diamond’s radiant pink color, suggesting a connection to the beauty of a sunrise, indicates a rare and coveted hue among diamonds. While specific details about its size, discovery, and current owner may not be widely known, the Pink Sunrise Diamond would be sought after by collectors and connoisseurs for its unique color and the skill required to cut and polish such a gem to reveal its full beauty.
96. The President Vargas Diamond: Discovered in Brazil in 1938, this massive 726.6-carat rough diamond was named after the then-President of Brazil, Getúlio Vargas. It was cut into 29 gems, the largest being the 48.26-carat emerald-cut diamond. These pieces have found their way into various famous and private collections around the world, each carrying a piece of the mid-20th-century glamour.
97. The Pumpkin Orange Diamond: Known for its unique orange hue, this diamond is a rare Fancy Vivid Orange diamond weighing 5.54 carats. It was sold at auction in 1997 for $1.3 million, setting a record price per carat for an orange diamond at that time. Its warm, autumnal color sets it apart in the realm of colored diamonds, making it a coveted piece for collectors.
98. The Queen Marie of Romania’s Sapphire: Although not a diamond, this remarkable sapphire is noteworthy for its deep blue color and royal provenance. Once belonging to Queen Marie of Romania, the sapphire underscores the historical importance and the allure of gemstones within royal collections, showcasing the beauty and prestige associated with such significant pieces.
99. The Raj Pink Diamond: Unveiled as the world’s largest known Fancy Intense Pink diamond, weighing 37.30 carats, the Raj Pink Diamond was offered at auction in 2017. Its size, coupled with its intense color and clarity, places it among the rarest and most desirable diamonds. Such characteristics make pink diamonds like the Raj highly sought after in the gemstone market, embodying the pinnacle of beauty and rarity.
100. The Estrela De Fura Red Ruby: This captivating 55.22-carat ruby that has redefined the world of colored gemstones. Unearthed in Mozambique in July 2022, this gem holds the title of the largest gem-quality ruby ever discovered. Its vivid “pigeon blood” red color, typically associated with the finest Burmese rubies, and its exceptional clarity make it a true marvel of nature. In June 2023, the Estrela de FURA set a new world record when it was auctioned for $34.8 million, underscoring its significance as one of the most extraordinary rubies ever brought to market.
101. The Royal Purple Heart Diamond: This diamond is celebrated for its rarity and stunning color. Purple diamonds are among the rarest in the world, and a heart-shaped cut adds to the uniqueness of this gem. While specific details regarding its carat weight, discovery, and current owner might not be widely known, its description suggests it is a marvel of nature and human craftsmanship, embodying luxury, rarity, and the allure of colored diamonds.