The Cullinan Diamond: A Contested Legacy in the Crown Jewels

The Cullinan Diamond: A Contested Legacy in the Crown Jewels

The Cullinan Diamond, also called the Star of Africa, is a famous gemstone. Its size and beauty are well-known. The diamond’s acquisition and place in the British Crown Jewels are controversial.

Discovery and Naming

The diamond was found in Pretoria, South Africa. This happened on January 26, 1905, at the Premier No. 2 mine. The rough diamond weighed 3,106 carats. It is the largest gem-quality rough diamond ever found.

It was first nicknamed the “Star of Africa.” Later, it was named the Cullinan Diamond. This was after Sir Thomas Cullinan, who owned the mine.

The Journey to Britain

Moving diamonds and minerals from South Africa to the United Kingdom was common during colonial times. The Cullinan Diamond’s trip was called a diplomatic act.

In 1907, the diamond was sent to Britain. It was given to King Edward VII as a gift. The British said it was a symbol of peace and friendship. They said it would help the British and Dutch colonists heal after the Second Boer War. However, critics say this was wealth taken from a colony.

Transformation and Division

Cutting the Cullinan Diamond was hard because of its size. The rough stone was sent to Amsterdam in 1908. Amsterdam was a center for cutting diamonds.

The stone was cut into nine main stones (Cullinan I through IX). It was also cut into 96 smaller pieces. The largest is the Cullinan I, weighing 530.2 carats.

• Cullinan I (The Great Star of Africa) is in the Sovereign’s Sceptre.
• Cullinan II is in the Imperial State Crown.
• The other stones became part of the Royal Collection.

The Call for Repatriation

Today, the Cullinan pieces are part of the British Crown Jewels. Its value is about USD $400 million (or R6 billion) [Source needed]. However, South Africa sees its historical and cultural value as immeasurable.

Since it was taken during colonial rule, its place in the United Kingdom has caused debate. Many South Africans and activists think the gem was taken from Africa. They believe this happened when the territory was not fully free. They want it sent back to South Africa. They see this as justice and getting back national wealth.

The Cullinan Diamond’s story is more than just its money value. It shows a history of colonialism and political symbols. It also shows changing cultural views. The diamond shows historical power and is part of talks about heritage.