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Diamonds…”Naked Hope”

admin — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 20:00:30 +0000

Naked Hope Diamond

On a cool Wednesday, September morning in 2009, the Hope Diamond was presented to the press (and to the public) in her original, unadorned state. For the first time in the 50 years since she first went on display, the beautiful 45.5 carat blue lady appears, well… “naked”. Meaning that, for many “after-1960s” born members of this world’s population, an opportunity will be provided to see what she looked like prior to being set in platinum, laid in a setting of 16 white diamonds, and dangled from a 45 diamond necklace.

She will remain “naked”, in all her blue glory throughout the upcoming winter. But please be assured that blue is simply her color and not her mood; as she excitedly awaits the completion of her new setting, “Embracing Hope”. After polling more than 100,000 voters, this setting was chosen to be the favorite out of three possible candidates. From start to finish, Harry Winston Diamond Corp. has been in charge of the preparation of this fine, as well as world-famous, National Gem. Ribbon-like in appearance, the new “Embracing Hope” setting will be a temporary one; as its major purpose is to be showcased during a documentary sponsored by the Smithsonian entitled “Mystery of the Hope Diamond”.

The documentary is scheduled to premier in April 2010. No doubt, many will find the story of the Hope Diamond fascinating, as it is followed from its humble beginnings, to its rightful place in today’s modern history. For many, it should bring back memories of times gone by, and for others, the beautiful Hope Diamond will be a treasure to be discovered yet anew.

source, article by DanforthDiamond.com, experts in diamond engagement rings.

The Hope Diamond …Everything Old Is New Again

admin — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 21:21:57 +0000

Whether we like it or not, it appears that one of the most historically well known diamonds in world , the beautiful Hope Diamond, will be soon getting a makeover. Famed jeweler, The House of Harry Winston has decided that the diamond, which is now languishing , lonely and bored behind a thick, bullet-proof glass case in the Smithsonian Institute, is long overdue for having a cosmetic overhaul.

The Hope Diamond, is not known for being a party gal; as she has never, in her most recent past, been seen around town being wined and dined by any of the well-to-do Washingtonians. Although the striking deep blue 45.52 carat beauty has been said to be technically owned by The House of Winston; in recognition of the 50th anniversary of its being donated to the Smithsonian Institute, they are kindly requesting that the American public vote on one of three possible new and exciting setting choices.

They are: “Journey of Hope”, “Embracing Hope”, and “Renewed Hope”.

According to the information last made available, we will have until September 7, 2009 to cast our vote. Given the infamous history and nature of this particular diamond, we are not sure who would volunteer to wear it. Just think about it; would you? Up until now, the plan for the dramatic ‘reveal’ has been set for March 2010. However, those who like the setting ‘just the way it is, thank you’ will not have to worry, as this reset is temporary and does have a “Cinderella-like” timestamp on it. At the close of 2010, she will revert back to her original, ho-hum circle of white diamonds setting, and then back to her place behind a Smithsonian plate glass window to continue being “all dressed up and nowhere to go”.

Source

Am I Blue? The Wittelsbach diamond

admin — Wed, 14 Jan 2009 07:36:14 +0000

Let’s talk about an expensive diamond…one diamond in particular. Here’s a hint…It‘s historic, brilliant, rare and (drum roll, please) here’s the big clue: It’s blue. By now, we already know what you’re thinking…you’ve already got the answer. Any fool would know that this would have to refer to the famous Hope diamond. To this, we must respectfully say to you: Wrong!

To be perfectly fair… of course, you would think of the Hope diamond! After all, it meets all of the criteria: Big, blue and terribly expensive. However, let us explain: On December 10, 2008 , another historic blue gem; The Wittelsbach diamond, was auctioned off at Christie’s of London, for a cool , (now get this)…$24.3 million dollars! This is the largest amount of cash ever obtained from any London jewelry auction.

Now this is one “serious” diamond! After an obviously intense bidding session, the gorgeous, VS2 quality, bluish gray, 35.36 carat diamond was purchased by one earnest jeweller: A Mr. Laurence Graff. The diamond is rich in history; as the stone’s existence was first recorded in the 17^th century. The blue beauty, which is fashioned in a pattern closely resembling what is now called a “cushion” cut, is initially believed to be of Indian origin, and was originally included in the dowry of King Philip IV of Spain’s daughter, Infanta Margarita Teresa.

After playing a onetime role as part of the crown jewels of both Austria, then subsequently Bavaria; and then after a mysterious disappearance, it finally landed in a private collection; where it rested for over 80 years…until the historic December sale; leaving the rest of us to wonder: Just where will it end up next?

This post provided by DanforthDiamond.com, experts in engagement rings and diamonds.