The 5 Most Famous Diamonds in the World
- Sindur McRedmond
Diamonds have long symbolized power, beauty, and mystery. Some are known not just for their size or sparkle, but for their incredible stories—tales of royal intrigue, global journeys, and even a few curses. Today, we’re spotlighting five of the most famous diamonds in the world—each with a legacy as breathtaking as the stone itself.
1. The Hope Diamond
Weight: 45.52 carats
Color: Deep blue
Origin: India
Arguably the most infamous diamond in the world, the Hope Diamond is as well known for its stunning beauty as it is for the supposed curse attached to it. Originally mined in India, the diamond passed through the hands of French royalty before disappearing during the French Revolution. It resurfaced years later and eventually made its way to American socialite Evalyn Walsh McLean—who suffered numerous personal tragedies while owning it. Today, the diamond rests (safely, we hope!) in the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C.
2. The Cullinan Diamond
Weight (rough): 3,106 carats
Color: Colorless
Origin: South Africa
The Cullinan Diamond is the largest gem-quality rough diamond ever discovered. Found in 1905, the diamond was later gifted to King Edward VII and cut into several stones—nine major ones and nearly a hundred smaller ones. The largest cut stone, Cullinan I (also known as the Great Star of Africa), is a whopping 530.2 carats and sits proudly in the British Sovereign’s Sceptre.
3. The Koh-i-Noor Diamond
Weight: 105.6 carats
Color: Colorless
Origin: India
With a name that means “Mountain of Light” in Persian, the Koh-i-Noor is steeped in centuries of legend. Thought to bring misfortune to any man who wears it, the diamond has passed through the hands of many rulers across India, Persia, and Afghanistan. It eventually ended up in the British Crown Jewels, where it remains today—only worn by female members of the royal family due to its “curse.”
4. The Regent Diamond
Weight: 140.64 carats
Color: Exceptional white
Origin: India
Discovered in India in the 17th century, the Regent Diamond is often regarded as one of the most perfectly cut diamonds in the world. It once adorned the crown of Louis XV and later Napoleon Bonaparte’s sword. The diamond is now on display at the Louvre Museum in Paris, where it continues to dazzle visitors with its icy brilliance.
5. The Golden Jubilee Diamond
Weight: 545.67 carats
Color: Fancy yellow-brown
Origin: South Africa
The Golden Jubilee Diamond holds the title of the largest faceted diamond in the world. Discovered in 1985 at the Premier Mine in South Africa (the same mine that produced the Cullinan Diamond), this massive gem was initially nicknamed the “Unnamed Brown.” After expert cutting and polishing, it revealed a stunning warm amber glow. In 1997, the diamond was presented to the King of Thailand in honor of his Golden Jubilee—the 50th anniversary of his reign. It now resides in the Royal Thai Palace as part of the country’s crown jewels.
Diamonds may be forever, but their stories evolve over centuries. Whether they’ve crowned royalty, inspired legends, or graced red carpets, these five diamonds prove that a little sparkle can leave a lasting legacy.