What is the History of the hope diamond?

The stone's discovery location, date and by whom is lost to history. However, it is classified as a 'Golcanda' stone, meaning it's origin is most probably that area of India.

The Hope Diamond began its documented life based on its first sale in 1668. This remarkable stone was initially described as a 'beautiful violet' in colour.

It has been re-cut several times and owned by several owners, including Mr Hope, who owned the stone in 1839, and after whom it is named. It's current weight is about 44.5 carats.

Harry Winston, the New York jeweler, purchased the stone from an estate during the late 1940s, and donated it to the Smithsonian in Washington DC in the late 1950s.

It's colour has been attributed to traces of boron mixed in with the carbon.

Learn more specific details from the Web site, below.