50 years ago you were given a diamond. What? You dont’ remember. Let me give you some clues: It’s a 45.52 Carat deep blue diamond. It was discovered in the 17th Century at a mine in Golconda, India. It was owned by Louis XIV of France and King George IV of England. It is set in a mounting with 16 colorless diamonds and hung on a chain of 45 more diamonds. It was a gift from Harry Winston. It’s believed to be cursed and nicknamed America’s Crown Jewel. Give up? It’s the Hope Diamond, and it is yours.
Photo courtesy of The Smithsonian
Technically it was donated to the Smithsonian Institution which is owned by the people of the United States of America. That’s right, the Hope Diamond belongs to you, and me, and about 300 million other people. To celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the Hope Diamond donation to the Smithsonian Institution it is being reset – and you (the owner) have a say. You can vote on how you think it should be set. Visit the Smithsonian Channel website to vote on how you think the diamond should be set. Legendary designer, Harry Winston, has designed 3 beautiful settings. One of these will be used to display the Hope Diaimond during 2010 in honor of its 50th year on display.
Now, if only they would let me wear it for a night . . . .
