Cullinan Diamond: The Largest Diamond Ever Discovered

Cullinan Diamond: The Largest Diamond Ever Discovered

The story of the Cullinan Diamond is one of extraordinary discovery, remarkable craftsmanship, and its enduring legacy as a symbol of royalty. Found in the early 20th century, this gem remains unparalleled in size and historical significance.

1. Discovery and Naming

The Cullinan Diamond was unearthed on January 26, 1905, in the Premier Mine of South Africa, near Pretoria. At an astonishing 3,106 carats, it was the largest gem-quality diamond ever found. The discovery itself was serendipitous:

• The Finder: Frederick Wells, the mine’s surface manager, spotted a shiny reflection protruding from the mine’s wall during a routine inspection.
• Initial Doubts: Initially mistaken for a crystal, it was later confirmed to be a diamond of extraordinary size and quality.

The diamond was named after Sir Thomas Cullinan, the owner of the Premier Mine. This historic find soon captured the attention of the world, symbolizing the vast mineral wealth of South Africa.

2. Gift to the British Crown

After its discovery, the Cullinan Diamond became a subject of intrigue and political maneuvering. It was eventually purchased by the Transvaal Colony’s government for £150,000 (a significant sum at the time) as a gesture of goodwill toward the British monarchy.

• In 1907, the diamond was presented to King Edward VII as a birthday gift.
• Transport Strategy: To ensure its safety during transit, a decoy diamond was shipped under heavy guard, while the real Cullinan was sent inconspicuously in a simple box via ordinary mail.

This gift solidified the Cullinan Diamond’s place in British royal heritage.

3. Cutting and Craftsmanship

The task of cutting and polishing the Cullinan Diamond was entrusted to the renowned Asscher Diamond Company in Amsterdam, led by Joseph Asscher. This was a monumental challenge given the diamond’s size and hardness.

Challenges Faced:

• First Attempt: The steel blade used to cleave the diamond broke on the initial attempt without leaving a mark on the diamond.
• Second Attempt: With a perfectly placed strike, Asscher successfully cleaved the diamond in one precise blow. Legend has it that Asscher fainted immediately afterward from the sheer pressure and relief.

Process:

• The cutting process took eight months of meticulous work.
• The diamond was divided into 9 major stones and 97 smaller stones, each polished to perfection.

4. Major Stones and Their Placement

The Cullinan Diamond’s largest fragments became integral to the British Crown Jewels, cementing their historical and symbolic importance.

Cullinan I (The Great Star of Africa):

• Weight: 530.2 carats.
• Feature: The largest polished white diamond in the world.
• Setting: Mounted in the Royal Sceptre, which is part of the Crown Jewels housed in the Tower of London.

Cullinan II (The Second Star of Africa):

• Weight: 317.4 carats.
• Feature: The second-largest polished diamond.
• Setting: Placed in the Imperial State Crown, worn by British monarchs during state ceremonies.

Other Notable Stones:

• The remaining seven major stones and numerous smaller fragments were set into various pieces of royal jewelry, including brooches, necklaces, and rings. Many remain in private collections of the British royal family.

5. Monetary and Historical Value

The Cullinan Diamond’s monetary value is as extraordinary as its size:

• Estimated Value: Today, the diamond is estimated to be worth over $2 billion (approximately 14,000 crore INR).
• Cullinan I Alone: Valued at $150 million.
• Insurance Costs: Maintaining the security and insurance of these royal jewels costs an estimated $2.25 million annually.

Beyond monetary worth, the diamond symbolizes power, prestige, and craftsmanship, making it an invaluable piece of British history.

6. Comparison to Koh-i-Noor and Other Diamonds

The Cullinan Diamond is often compared to the Koh-i-Noor, another legendary gem:

• Cullinan vs. Koh-i-Noor:
  • Cullinan’s original uncut weight (3,106 carats) dwarfs the Koh-i-Noor’s 105.6 carats.
  • While Koh-i-Noor’s history is steeped in conquest and lore, the Cullinan is renowned for its sheer size and technical brilliance.

In 2024, a new discovery in Botswana revealed a 2,492-carat diamond, the second-largest ever found, though it still falls short of the Cullinan’s unmatched scale.

7. Legacy and Cultural Significance

The Cullinan Diamond is not just a gemstone but a testament to human ingenuity and the historical ties between nations.

• Symbol of Unity: The diamond’s presentation to King Edward VII was seen as a gesture of reconciliation between Britain and South Africa.
• Technological Marvel: The cutting and polishing of the Cullinan pushed the boundaries of diamond craftsmanship in the early 20th century.

Even today, the Cullinan Diamond’s fragments in the Crown Jewels are a source of fascination for millions of visitors to the Tower of London, reflecting its enduring allure and importance.

Conclusion: A Journey from Mine to Majesty

The story of the Cullinan Diamond is one of extraordinary discovery, meticulous craftsmanship, and unparalleled legacy. From its unearthing in the depths of South Africa to its transformation into some of the most iconic royal jewels, the Cullinan remains a symbol of natural wonder and human achievement. Its journey from the Premier Mine to the British Crown Jewels ensures its place as one of the most storied gems in history.