The Hope Diamond Legendary Blue Jewel of the Smithsonian
The Hope Diamond is a rare and iconic deep-blue diamond weighing 45.52 carats. Believed to have originated from the Kollur mine in Golconda, India, it dates back over a billion years. It was once part of a larger 112-carat stone sold to King Louis XIV of France in the 17th century. After changing hands through European royalty and among American elites, the Hope family’s diamond was eventually donated by jeweler Harry Winston to the Smithsonian Institution in 1958. Today, it is one of the most visited and studied gemstones in the world.
Specifications
Attribute
Details
Name
Hope Diamond
Weight
45.52 carats (9.104 grams)
Color
Fancy deep grayish-blue
Diamond Type
Type IIb (extremely rare, semiconductive)
Origin
Kollur Mine, Golconda, India
Original Weight (Uncut)
Approximately 112 carats
Year Discovered
Estimated in the 17th century
First European Owner
Jean-Baptiste Tavernier (French gem merchant)
Entry into France
Around 1668
Famous Owners
King Louis XIV, King Louis XVI, Hope Family, Evalyn Walsh McLean
Current Location
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, USA
Year Donated
1958 by Harry Winston
Setting
16 white diamonds in a pendant surrounded by 45 white diamonds
Estimated Value
$250 million to $350 million
Historical Significance
Detail
Information
Original Use
Part of the French Crown Jewels
Stolen
During the French Revolution (1790s)
Recut & Sold
Reappeared in England and modified
Gained Name “Hope Diamond”
After being purchased by Henry Philip Hope
Ownership Timeline
France → England → United States
Last Private Owner
Evalyn Walsh McLean
Museum Acquisition
Gained the Name “Hope Diamond”
Geological & Scientific Features
Feature
Description
Color Origin
Presence of trace amounts of boron
Fluorescence
Glows red under ultraviolet light (phosphorescence)
Diamond Type
Type IIb – extremely rare and conductive
Composition
Almost entirely carbon with rare impurities
Age
Estimated over 1 billion years
Cut
Antique cushion cut
Cultural and Public Importance
Aspect
Smithsonian Institution, Washington, D.C.
Public Display
Featured in books, documentaries, and films
Visitor Count
Attracts over 6 million visitors annually
Media Presence
Featured in books, documentaries, films
Symbolism
Represents wealth, mystery, and historical legacy
Educational Value
Frequently studied for its chemical and historical properties
Legends and Myths
Legend
Details
The “Curse”
Rumored to bring misfortune to past owners
Famous Stories
Multiple previous owners allegedly faced tragedy or ruin
Truth vs Fiction
No scientific proof of curse; stories add to public intrigue
Why It’s Important
Reason
Explanation
Historical Artifact
A journey from Indian mines to French royalty and American museums
Scientific Wonder
Rare properties studied by gemologists worldwide
Cultural Icon
Represents the allure and mystery of legendary gemstones
Public Treasure
On permanent public display for global education and admiration
