On January 26, 1905, the world’s largest diamond, the Cullinan Diamond, was discovered in a South African mine. This monumental find, weighing an incredible 3,106 carats, captivated the world and remains one of the most famous gemstones in history. Its discovery marked a significant moment in both the mining industry and the history of precious gemstones.
The Discovery
The Cullinan Diamond was found at the Premier Mine (now known as the Cullinan Mine) in Gauteng, South Africa. Frederick Wells, the mine’s superintendent, made the discovery while performing a routine inspection. He spotted a glimmer in the mine wall, and upon closer examination, he uncovered the massive rough diamond embedded in the rock.
Weighing approximately 1.37 pounds (621.35 grams), the diamond was named after Sir Thomas Cullinan, the mine’s owner. Its exceptional size and quality immediately made it an object of fascination and value.
Journey of the Diamond
The Cullinan Diamond was presented to King Edward VII of the United Kingdom as a symbolic gesture of goodwill from the Transvaal Colony. Transporting such a valuable gem posed a security challenge. To confuse potential thieves, an elaborate decoy plan was implemented: a fake diamond was shipped under heavy guard while the real Cullinan was sent to London in a plain box by ordinary mail.
Once in London, the diamond was entrusted to the famous Asscher Brothers of Amsterdam, who specialized in cutting and polishing large gemstones. The diamond was eventually divided into nine large stones and about 100 smaller ones, with the two largest stones—Cullinan I and Cullinan II—becoming part of the British Crown Jewels.
The Crown Jewels and Legacy
Cullinan I, also known as the Great Star of Africa, is the largest polished diamond in the world at 530.4 carats. It is set in the head of the Sovereign’s Sceptre with Cross, one of the most iconic symbols of British monarchy. Cullinan II, the second-largest polished gem at 317.4 carats, is mounted in the Imperial State Crown.
The other major stones cut from the Cullinan Diamond are privately owned by the British royal family and continue to be admired for their extraordinary brilliance and clarity.
A Symbol of History and Grandeur
The discovery of the Cullinan Diamond on January 26, 1905, remains a landmark event in the world of gemstones and mining. Its legacy endures not only in the Crown Jewels but also as a reminder of South Africa’s rich mineral wealth. This extraordinary diamond continues to inspire awe and fascination, a true testament to the wonders of nature.
