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A Few Famous Diamonds
A Few Famous Diamonds
Koh-I-Noor
Weighing 105.60ct, the Koh-I-Noor is set as part of the British Crown Jewels. Its name translating as Mountain of Light, the Koh-I-Noor's history can be traced back to 1304 and it found its way to its present day home via Mogul emperors, India, Afghanistan and then to England where it was presented to Queen Victoria by the East India Company. The Koh-I-Noor has been set in various royal jewels and is kept in the Tower of London, with the other Crown Jewels.
The Great Star of Africa
Also known as the Cullinan I, this pear shaped diamond weighing 530.20ct is set in the Royal Sceptre housed in the Tower of London.
The Taylor-Burton
Formerly known as the Cartier diamond, it was bought by Richard Burton as an engagement ring for Elizabth Taylor. This pear shaped diamond weighs 69.42ct. When Richard Burton died in 1979, Elizabeth Taylor sold the stone in aid of charity, donating the proceeds to a Biafran hospital.
The Blue Hope
Named after the buyer, Henry Thomas Hope, this diamond weighs just over 45.50 ct. The name appears to be a misnomer as many of its owners have suffered ill luck. Hope's son suffered financial ruin when he inherited the diamond. Then the Blue Hope was owned by an American woman, Mrs. Mclean, but the stone's bad luck ran through her family too; her only son was killed in an accident, Mrs. Mclean lost all her money and eventually reportedly committed suicide. The Blue Hope is now housed in the Smithosonian Institute in Washington, DC.
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