What Is The Largest Diamond In The World?
How Are Diamonds Graded?
A diamond's weight is measured in carats. One carat equals 200 milligrams (0.2 gram). The weight measurement differentiates a one-carat diamond from a two-carat diamond.
When it comes to diamonds, bigger isn't always better. In fact, many jewelers will tell you that the cut of a diamond is more important than its size. But that doesn't mean that everyone wants a small engagement ring.
Factors Influencing the Value of a Diamond
To accurately grade a diamond, gemologists use specialized tools and equipment. The most critical factor in determining a diamond's quality is its "cut." A well-cut diamond will exhibit superior brilliance and fire, while a poorly cut diamond will appear dull and lifeless. The other factors that gemologists take into account when grading a diamond are its "clarity," "color," and "carat weight."
The "clarity" of a diamond measures how many blemishes or inclusions it has. These blemishes can be tiny crystals of other minerals, cracks, or clouds of carbon. The fewer blemishes a diamond has, the more valuable it is.
The "color" of a diamond is judged on a scale from D (no hue) to Z (a yellowish-hued diamond). The more colorless a diamond is, the more valuable it is.
Finally, the "carat weight" refers to the weight of the diamond. Larger diamonds are rarer and therefore more valuable than smaller ones.
5 World's Largest Diamonds
1. Cullinan Diamond
The world's largest diamond is the Cullinan diamond, which was found in South Africa in 1905. Frederick Wells first discovered it as an English prospector working in South Africa. It weighed a whopping 3,106.75 carats (over 621.35 g) and was cut into nine major stones and 100 smaller ones. The largest of these, the Great Star of Africa, weighs 530.20 carats (106.04 g) and is set in the Crown Jewels of the United Kingdom.2. Excelsior Diamond
The second-largest diamond is the Excelsior diamond, also found in South Africa. It weighed 995.20 carats (199.04 g) and was cut into ten significant stones and 21 smaller ones. The largest of these, the Excelsior II, weighs 96.01 carats (19.20 g) and is on display at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C.3. The Star of Sierra Leone
The third-largest diamond is the Star of Sierra Leone, found in 1972 in the alluvial deposits of the Koidu mine in Sierra Leone. It weighed 969.80 carats (193.96 g) and was cut into 17 major stones and 96 smaller ones. The Star of Sierra Leone I, the largest of these, weighs 76.02 carats (15.20 g) and is displayed at the National Museum of Natural History in Washington, D.C.4. Incomparable Diamond
The fourth-largest diamond is the Incomparable Diamond, which was found in 1984 in the Mbuji-Mayi region of Zaire (now the Democratic Republic of the Congo). It weighed 890.00 carats (178.00 g) and was cut into 19 major stones and 97 smaller ones. The largest of these, the Incomparable I, weighs 71.73 carats (14.35 g) and is on display at the National Museum of Natural History in Washington, D.C.5. Woyie River diamond
The fifth-largest diamond is the Woyie River diamond, which was found in 1945 in the Woyie River area of Sierra Leone. It weighed 640.00 carats (128.00 g) and was cut into 17 major stones and 96 smaller ones. The largest of these, the Woyie River I, weighs 62.50 carats (12.50 g) and is on display at the British Museum in London.Explore Our Collection!
Now that you know a bit more about the world's largest diamonds, you can start your search for the perfect diamond for you! If you are looking for a one-of-a-kind diamond that will make a statement, look no further than Greis Jewelers.
We have something for everyone, and our team of experts is here to help you find the perfect diamond for your needs. Visit us today and shop confidently, knowing you are getting the best value possible.