The World's Most Famous Diamonds: Stories Behind the Most Iconic Gems

Do you love a good story? Especially ones that involve exquisite jewels with a rich history and an intriguing backstory? Then get ready to be captivated because this blog is all about the world's most famous diamonds and the fascinating stories behind them.

From the iconic Hope Diamond to the breathtaking Koh-i-Noor, we'll explore the legends, myths, and facts surrounding these precious gems that have captured the hearts of people across the world for centuries. We'll also recommend engagement rings inspired by these legendary diamonds, so you can create your own version of history. So get comfy and let's dive into the glittering world of diamonds!

The Hope Diamond: Cursed and Captivating

Let’s start by going back to the 17th century when the Hope Diamond was first discovered in the Kollur mine of Golconda, India. Before being cut into its famous cushion shape, the diamond was a sizable 112 3/16 carats, which was absolutely huge- then and now!

Over the centuries, this gorgeous (and gigantic!) rock made its way into the hands of several owners, including the French royal family. However, it wasn't until it was sold to wealthy American heiress Evalyn Walsh McLean in 1911 that the Hope Diamond gained its now-famous name. Legend has it that the diamond was cursed and brought bad luck to those who owned it, but that didn't stop McLean from flaunting the diamond around Washington D.C. and beyond, even wearing it as a necklace to parties and events.

Over the years, the Hope Diamond has been the subject of many stories and myths, including its supposed connection to the tragic deaths of its owners. Today the diamond is housed in the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History in Washington, D.C. for all to admire.

So what are the details on this magnificent stone? The 45.52-carat Hope Diamond has a deep blue color due to the presence of boron atoms in the diamond's crystal structure. It has a clarity of VS1, with whitish graining present, and its cut has been described as "cushion antique brilliant with a faceted girdle and extra facets on the pavilion.” Its current value is estimated at $250 million.

If you're a fan, you’ll love The Lindsey when it features a beautiful cushion cut diamond. This gorgeous ring also boasts a glittery combination of marquise and round cut diamonds which gives it a similar vintage appeal. So if you want a touch of history and glamor in your own engagement ring, the Lindsey might just be the perfect choice.

The Cullinan Diamond: A Jewel of Legendary Proportions

The story of the Cullinan Diamond is like something out of a treasure hunt movie! This massive gem was discovered in South Africa in 1905 at the Premier Mine, which is still active today. The diamond weighed an incredible 3,106 carats (that's over 1.3 pounds!), making it the largest rough diamond ever found.

So how do you turn a rough stone that big into a polished gem? That was the challenge faced by contemporary diamond cutters, who eventually decided to split it into smaller pieces to make the process more manageable. It took eight months of careful work, but the Cullinan was eventually divided into 105 diamonds of various shapes and sizes.

The most famous of these diamonds is the Cullinan I, also known as the Great Star of Africa, a stunning pear-shaped gem weighing in at 530.2 carats. Described as a pendeloque-cut brilliant with 74 glimmering facets and considered the largest clear cut diamond in the world, it was given to King Edward VII as a gift in 1907 and has since been passed down through the British royal family. It is said to be worth an estimated $400 million today.

Currently set in the head of the Sceptre with the Cross, (one of the most important symbols of royal power in the UK) the Cullinan I is on display as part of the Crown Jewels in the Tower of London, where visitors can marvel at its incredible size and beauty. If you're looking for your own version of the Great Star of Africa, The Hidden Halo Penelope might be just what you need. When this ring features a pear-cut diamond supported by a flawless halo, you’ll feel as majestic as it looks!

The Koh-i-Noor Diamond: The Legendary Gem with a Controversial Past

The Koh-i-Noor Diamond, also known as the "Mountain of Light," is one of the most famous diamonds in the world. It is believed that this 105.6-carat sparkler, a colorless oval brilliant diamond with 66 facets, was mined in India and originally belonged to various Indian emperors. Today, it is believed to be the world’s most valuable diamond, with an estimated value at over $400 million.

In 1849, the East India Company took control of the Punjab region, which was where the Koh-i-Noor was kept at the time. After the diamond was taken as a spoil of war and presented to Queen Victoria as a gift in 1850, it was cut down to a more manageable size to be worn as a brooch. It has been passed down through various British monarchs and is currently set in the Queen Mother's Crown, which is on display in the Tower of London. Despite its illustrious history, the diamond has been the subject of much controversy and debate, with many calling for its return to India. Today, it remains one of the most famous diamonds in the world, attracting visitors from all over who come to see it in all its sparkling glory.

The Lexie engagement ring is the perfect choice for those who want to rock their own version of this legendary stone. When set with an oval-cut diamond, this incredibly breathtaking solitaire that emulates the elegance and sophistication of the Koh-i-Noor diamond. Its timeless design and stunning brilliance will make any wearer feel like royalty!

The Taylor-Burton Diamond: A Glamorous Piece of Hollywood History

The Taylor-Burton Diamond is a legendary gem with a fascinating story. In 1966, this white diamond, weighing an astonishing 240.80 carats in its rough form, was discovered in the Premier mine in South Africa. It was later purchased by Richard Burton as a gift for his wife, the famous actress Elizabeth Taylor, who promptly renamed it the Taylor-Burton Diamond.

The diamond's history is as captivating as its size. Richard Burton acquired it in 1969 for a record-breaking $1.5 million, and it quickly became a symbol of his love for Taylor. The couple's on-and-off relationship was marked by extravagant gifts, and the Taylor-Burton Diamond was one of the most famous. After the couple's divorce in 1976, Taylor sold the diamond for charity (it fetched an impressive $3 million), and it has since passed through various owners.

The Taylor-Burton Diamond is a Type IIa diamond, which is one of the rarest and most sought-after types due to its exceptional clarity and color. It is also notable for its pear shape and the stunning 68 facets that reflect light in a way few other diamonds can. Today, the diamond is believed to be in the possession of a private collector, though its current location is not publicly known.

The Maia engagement ring is the perfect choice for fans of the Burton-Taylor diamond, especially when set with a pear-cut sparkler. The center stone sits in a lavish hidden halo, creating a seamless and elegant appearance, while the slim band enhances its visual impact. When your bae wears The Maia, it will leave her feeling like a true Hollywood star.