You’ve probably seen the Star of Africa I in photos of royal coronations. It’s the massive sparkler at the top of the sceptre. The Queen (God rest her soul) used to hold that thing like it was no big deal. Just your average day—holding a rock worth more than most small countries.
Largest Diamond in the World, List of Top 10
The second-largest cut piece, the Star of Africa II, sits in the Imperial State Crown. It’s a cushion-cut beauty at 317.4 carats. That crown is heavy enough without adding a giant diamond, but hey, royalty has to suffer for fashion.
Fun fact: the Star of Africa II is removable. The Queen could pop it out and wear it as a brooch. Because nothing says “casual Tuesday” like a 317-carat accessory.
But Wait—Is There a Bigger Diamond Out There?
Good question! The Cullinan is the largest gem-quality rough diamond ever found. But if we’re talking about rough diamonds in general, there’s a new kid on the block. In 2019, miners in Botswana discovered the Sewelô Diamond, weighing 1,758 carats. It’s huge, but it’s not gem-quality—it’s more industrial.
Then there’s the Lesedi La Rona, a 1,109-carat gem-quality diamond found in 2015. That one sold for $53 million. Yes, $53 million. For a rock. A really, really nice rock.
And let’s not forget the Golden Jubilee Diamond. It’s a 545-carat brown diamond currently owned by the King of Thailand. It’s the largest cut diamond in the world, but it’s not as famous because it’s brown. Sorry, brown diamonds—you’re still pretty, but you’re not “Star of Africa” pretty.
Worlds Largest Precious Stone
