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History

The largest gem-quality diamond ever found came from just outside Pretoria

The Cullinan Diamond, discovered in 1905 near Pretoria, remains the largest gem-quality rough diamond ever found — over 3,100 carats.

The diamond was cut into several stones, the largest of which — the Great Star of Africa — is set in the British Sovereign's Sceptre, part of the Crown Jewels. Several smaller Cullinan stones are also part of the British Royal Collection today.

Source: Cullinan Diamond Mine (Petra Diamonds)

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I see pieces of the Cullinan Diamond today?

The two largest cut stones — Cullinan I (the Great Star of Africa) and Cullinan II — are part of the British Crown Jewels, on public display at the Tower of London.

Is the mine that produced it still operating?

Yes — now known as the Cullinan Diamond Mine, it continues to produce diamonds and remains one of the world's most significant sources of large, exceptional stones.

How many separate diamonds were cut from the original stone?

The Cullinan was cut into nine major stones and around 100 smaller ones, maximising the value and brilliance recoverable from the original rough diamond.

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