The Cullinan II Diamond is a magnificent gemstone that has captivated the world with its exceptional beauty and historical significance. As one of the most famous diamonds in the world, the Cullinan II Diamond has a fascinating history that spans more than a century. This blog post will explore the rich history, characteristics, and significance of the Cullinan II Diamond, as well as its place in the royal collection.

What is the Cullinan II Diamond?

The Cullinan II Diamond is a large, pear-shaped diamond that is part of the Cullinan Diamond, the largest gem-quality diamond ever found. The Cullinan II Diamond weighs 317.4 carats and is considered one of the most valuable diamonds in the world. The diamond is named after Sir Thomas Cullinan, the owner of the mine where the diamond was discovered.

Significance of the Cullinan II Diamond

The Cullinan II Diamond played an important role in the British monarchy for over a century. The diamond has been worn by many monarchs during their reign, including Queen Victoria, Queen Alexandra, and Queen Elizabeth II. The Cullinan II Diamond is also a symbol of the British Empire and its former colonies, as it was often worn during official ceremonies and state visits.

History of the Cullinan II Diamond

The discovery of the Cullinan Diamond in 1905 was a significant event in the history of diamond mining. The diamond was found in the Premier Mine in South Africa, and at the time of its discovery, it weighed 3,106 carats. The diamond was named after the owner of the mine, Sir Thomas Cullinan.

The Cullinan Diamond was sent to London, where it was cut into nine major stones and 96 smaller stones. The largest stone, the Cullinan I Diamond, also known as the Great Star of Africa, weighs 530.4 carats and is the largest polished diamond in the world. The Cullinan II Diamond, also known as the Lesser Star of Africa, is the second-largest stone and weighs 317.4 carats.

Ownership of the Cullinan II Diamond has changed several times over the years. The diamond was purchased by the Transvaal Colony government in South Africa and presented to King Edward VII as a gift in 1907. The diamond was then set in the Imperial State Crown and has been worn by every monarch since.

Characteristics of the Cullinan II Diamond

The Cullinan II Diamond is a Type IIa diamond, which is the purest type of diamond with no nitrogen impurities. It weighs 317.4 carats and measures 40.00 mm x 28.15 mm x 20.20 mm. It has a clarity grade of VS1, which means it has very small inclusions that are difficult to see under 10x magnification. The diamond has 74 facets, which reflect and refract light to create a brilliant sparkle. The pear shape of the diamond is also unique and adds to its allure.

What sets the Cullinan II Diamond apart from other diamonds is its exceptional color. The diamond is graded as a type IIb diamond, which means it contains boron, giving it a blue-gray color. The color of the diamond is graded as fancy blue-gray, which is a very rare and highly sought-after color in diamonds. The blue-gray color of the diamond is said to give it a unique and mesmerizing appearance.

The Cullinan II Diamond has a color grade of D, which is the highest color grade for diamonds and signifies a completely colorless stone. The diamond also has a clarity grade of VS1, which means that it has very few inclusions and is considered to be of excellent quality. The diamond's cut is also exceptional and plays an important role in its beauty.

The Cullinan II Diamond in the Royal Collection

The Cullinan II Diamond has been an important part of the British Royal Collection since it was presented to King Edward VII in 1908. The diamond has been used in many pieces of royal regalia, including the Imperial State Crown, which is worn by the monarch during the State Opening of Parliament. The diamond is set in the front of the crown and weighs 317.4 carats.

In addition to the Imperial State Crown, the Cullinan II Diamond has also been used in other pieces of royal regalia, including the Sovereign's Sceptre with Cross and the Imperial Crown of India. The diamond has also been exhibited in many exhibitions, including the 1953-1954 "Queen Elizabeth II: A Coronation Exhibition" at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London.

The Cullinan II Diamond has been a symbol of the British monarchy's power and wealth for over a century. Its use in royal regalia highlights its significance and importance to the British monarchy.

Conclusion

The Cullinan II Diamond is a diamond of exceptional size, color, and clarity, and its history is as remarkable as its characteristics. Its discovery, cutting, and ownership history make it one of the most famous diamonds in the world. Its significance to the British monarchy is also evident in its use in royal regalia, including the Imperial State Crown, which is worn by the monarch during the State Opening of Parliament.

The Cullinan II Diamond has been admired and coveted by many for over a century, and its rare color and mesmerizing appearance continue to captivate diamond enthusiasts and collectors alike. It remains a testament to the extraordinary beauty and magnificence of diamonds, and a reminder of the fascinating history and stories behind these precious gems.