The Cullinan diamond is the largest rough diamond ever discovered, weighing in at 3,106.75 carats (621.35 grams). It was found at the Premier No. 2 mine in Cullinan, South Africa, on January 26, 1905, and was named after Thomas Cullinan, the chairman of the mine. The Cullinan diamond was originally sold to the Transvaal government for $150,000 (equivalent to $4.2 million in 2021). The government then presented the diamond to King Edward VII, who had it cut into several smaller stones. The largest of these stones, the Cullinan I, is set in the Sovereign’s Sceptre with Cross, part of the Crown Jewels of the United Kingdom.
The Cullinan diamond is one of the most famous and valuable diamonds in the world. It is estimated to be worth over $400 million. The diamond is also a symbol of South Africa’s mining industry and is a popular tourist attraction.
The Cullinan diamond has been featured in numerous films and television shows, including the 2005 film “The Curse of the Pink Panther” and the 2011 television series “Downton Abbey.” The diamond has also been the subject of several books, including “The Cullinan Diamond” by Ian Balfour and “The Great Diamonds of the World” by Frederick H. Pough.
Cullinan Diamond FAQs
The Cullinan diamond is the largest rough diamond ever discovered. It was found in South Africa in 1905 and was named after the chairman of the mine where it was found. The Cullinan diamond was originally sold to the Transvaal government for $150,000 (equivalent to $4.2 million in 2021). The government then presented the diamond to King Edward VII, who had it cut into several smaller stones. The largest of these stones, the Cullinan I, is set in the Sovereign’s Sceptre with Cross, part of the Crown Jewels of the United Kingdom.
Question 1: How much is the Cullinan diamond worth?
The Cullinan diamond is estimated to be worth over $400 million.
Question 2: Where is the Cullinan diamond kept?
The Cullinan diamond is part of the Crown Jewels of the United Kingdom and is kept in the Tower of London.
Question 3: How big is the Cullinan diamond?
The Cullinan diamond weighed 3,106.75 carats (621.35 grams) when it was found. After it was cut into smaller stones, the largest stone, the Cullinan I, weighs 530.2 carats (106.04 grams).
Question 4: Who owns the Cullinan diamond?
The Cullinan diamond is owned by the British Crown.
Question 5: What is the Cullinan diamond made of?
The Cullinan diamond is made of carbon.
Question 6: What color is the Cullinan diamond?
The Cullinan diamond is colorless.
Summary of key takeaways or final thought:
The Cullinan diamond is a magnificent and valuable gemstone. It is the largest rough diamond ever discovered and is part of the Crown Jewels of the United Kingdom.
Transition to the next article section:
The Cullinan diamond is a fascinating and important part of history. It is a symbol of South Africa’s mining industry and is a popular tourist attraction. The diamond has been featured in numerous films and television shows and has been the subject of several books.
Cullinan Diamond Investment Tips
The Cullinan diamond is a valuable and rare gemstone. If you are considering investing in a Cullinan diamond, there are a few things you should keep in mind.
Tip 1: Do your research.
Before you invest in a Cullinan diamond, it is important to do your research and learn as much as you can about the diamond market. This includes understanding the different factors that affect the value of a diamond, such as the carat, cut, color, and clarity.
Tip 2: Buy from a reputable dealer.
When you are buying a Cullinan diamond, it is important to buy from a reputable dealer. This will help to ensure that you are getting a genuine diamond and that you are paying a fair price.
Tip 3: Get the diamond certified.
Once you have purchased a Cullinan diamond, it is important to get it certified by a reputable gemological laboratory. This will provide you with an independent assessment of the diamond’s quality and value.
Tip 4: Store the diamond securely.
Cullinan diamonds are valuable and should be stored securely. This means keeping them in a safe place where they will not be damaged or stolen.
Tip 5: Insure the diamond.
It is also important to insure your Cullinan diamond. This will protect you financially in the event that the diamond is lost, stolen, or damaged.
Summary of key takeaways or benefits:
By following these tips, you can increase your chances of making a wise investment in a Cullinan diamond.
Transition to the article’s conclusion:
Cullinan diamonds are a beautiful and valuable investment. By following these tips, you can help to protect your investment and ensure that you get the most enjoyment out of your diamond.
Conclusion
The Cullinan diamond is a unique and valuable gemstone. Its large size and exceptional quality make it one of the most sought-after diamonds in the world. The price of a Cullinan diamond can vary depending on a number of factors, including the carat, cut, color, and clarity. However, all Cullinan diamonds are considered to be valuable investments.
If you are considering investing in a Cullinan diamond, it is important to do your research and buy from a reputable dealer. You should also get the diamond certified by a reputable gemological laboratory and store it securely. By following these tips, you can increase your chances of making a wise investment in a Cullinan diamond.