The world’s largest diamond, known as the “Star of Africa” or the Cullinan Diamond, weighs an incredible 3,106 carats, which translates to 1.3 pounds. Discovered in 1905 by Thomas Evan Powell at the Premier Mine in Pretoria, South Africa, he handed the gem over to Frederick Wells, the mine’s supervisor, to gain better insights on handling such a find.
Mining the Star of Africa: The Discovery Process
The discovery of this diamond was remarkably ordinary; Powell stumbled upon it during a routine inspection 18 feet underground. Despite not being the largest diamond mine—failing to make the top ten list—the sheer size of the diamond drew international attention, making the mine a sensation due to the contrast between the diamond’s enormity and the mine’s modest scale.
A Piece of a Larger Puzzle: The Largest Diamond in the World
Sir William Crookes, while analyzing the diamond, noted a black spot in the center, which indicated internal strain amidst the surrounding vivid colors. The gemstone’s nearly smooth side suggested it was once part of an even larger diamond that natural forces had split. Although the Cullinan Diamond is the largest found to date, Crookes believed it was only a fraction of its original size.
Ownership of the Cullinan Diamond
Named after the mine’s owner, Sir Thomas Cullinan, the diamond was presented to him by Wells on January 25th, the day of its discovery. Cullinan promptly documented the find, posing for a photo with the diamond. He then sold it to the Transvaal provincial government, which gifted it to King Edward VII for his 66th birthday. Initially hesitant to accept, the king was persuaded by Winston Churchill, who received a replica of the diamond as a token of appreciation.
From the Mine to King Edward VII
Understanding the diamond’s immense value, King Edward VII cleverly arranged for a decoy diamond to be sent ahead to England, to thwart potential theft.
Cutting the Largest Diamond: A Daunting Task
Entrusted to renowned diamond cutter Joseph Asscher in Amsterdam, the Cullinan diamond posed a significant challenge. Asscher spent six months meticulously studying the diamond before attempting a cut. His first try broke the blade; his second, successful venture reportedly caused him to faint—though this account is debated. Whether he fainted or celebrated, Asscher was relieved to have perfectly cut this colossal gem.
Current Location of the Cullinan Diamond
The Cullinan Diamond no longer exists in its original form; it has been divided into nine large stones and nearly 100 smaller ones, all collectively worth millions. The largest segment, known as “Star of Africa I” or “Cullinan I,” weighs 530 carats, making it the largest cut colorless diamond. It held the title of the largest polished diamond until the Golden Jubilee Diamond was found in 1985 at the Premier Mine.
Today, “Star of Africa I” resides in the British Sovereign’s Royal Scepter, housed at the Tower of London. Other notable cuts from the original Cullinan diamond, including Cullinan II, are part of the Crown Jewels at the Tower of London. Queen Elizabeth II possesses a collection consisting of seven major cuts and 96 smaller ones, inherited from her grandmother, Queen Mary.
