Where Was The Tiffany Diamond Discovered?
In 2021, Beyonce was the first Black woman to wear the Tiffany Diamond. Before her, the only other women who have worn it were Mary Whitehouse, Audrey Hepburn, and Lady Gaga. The Tiffany Diamond is one of the most notable diamonds discovered in the 19th century. Throughout the years, the gemstone has been set on different necklaces and has also been exhibited in museums (via Professional Jeweller).
The yellow diamond has a long history that dates back more than a century ago. According to Documentary Tube, it was discovered in South Africa's Kimberley Mine in 1878. The rough diamond weighed 287.42 carats, and during that time, it was the largest yellow diamond that had been discovered. News of the diamond's discovery reached New York and soon, the founder of luxury jewelry brand Tiffany & Co., Charles Tiffany, offered to purchase the diamond for $18,000. Tiffany sent the diamond to Paris where it was studied by the company's chief gemologist, George Frederick Kunz. It was then decided that the Tiffany Diamond should be cut to enhance its rare, yellowish color.
The Tiffany Diamond today
George Frederick Kunz studied the Tiffany Diamond for over a year to be able to have a plan on how to cut it into shape while still keeping the gem intact. Minimizing the weight loss during cutting was also considered. It was eventually cut into a square shape that showed off its brilliance, and as described by Tiffany & Co., it "sparkles as if lit by an inner flame." The diamond went from 287.42 carats to 128.54 carats after it was cut. Furthermore, the gem had 82 facets, which is 24 facets more than the standard cut of 58 facets (via Brilliance). It measures an inch wide and seven-eighths of an inch high.
The Tiffany Diamond is kept at the Tiffany & Co. store in New York. Throughout the years, however, it has been exhibited in different locations in and out of the United States. Today, according to Harper's Bazaar, the Tiffany Diamond is worth $30 million.