Centenary Diamond: Why This 273-Carat Marvel Remains a Priceless Mystery

1) Centenary Diamond: What Makes It Special? Go Down To Table Of Contents

The Centenary Diamond is one of the largest and most flawless diamonds ever found. With a stunning D-color grade and a precision-cut design, it stands out as a true masterpiece in the diamond industry. Originally discovered at the Premier Mine, this legendary gemstone continues to captivate collectors, jewelers, and historians alike.

1.a) The Legacy of the Centenary Diamond Back To Top

This famous diamond carries a legacy of perfection, mystery, and prestige. Recovered at the Premier Mine, it was later unveiled during the Centennial Celebration of De Beers in 1988. Decades later, its current owner is unknown, adding to its intrigue among collectors and investors

The Breathtaking 273.85-Carat Centenary Diamond

A Rare Gem in Diamond History

Among top-color diamonds, the Centenary stands as one of the most exceptional gems ever unearthed. The Premier Mine produced the Centenary Diamond, originally weighing 599 carats in the rough, making it the third-largest diamond from this source. The Centenary Diamond earned a perfect D-color grade, the highest ranking on the Gemological Institute of America’s scale.

What makes this diamond even rarer is its internally and externally flawless clarity. Very few discovered diamonds match its perfection. The rarity of a flawless diamond this size makes the Centenary an unparalleled achievement in the diamond industry. Whether in terms of rarity, quality, or historical significance, this gemstone remains one of the most valuable diamonds ever found.

Why It Is Considered a Masterpiece

The Centenary Diamond is a blend of art and science, shaped through extraordinary craftsmanship and technical expertise. Gabi Tolkowsky, one of the world’s most renowned diamond cutters, led the team responsible for transforming the rough diamond into a dazzling masterpiece.

De Beers went to great lengths to ensure its flawless cutting process. A special underground facility was built at the De Beers Diamond Research Laboratory in Johannesburg to eliminate mechanical vibrations and temperature changes that could affect precision. The team worked tirelessly for 154 days, carefully hand-cutting the rough diamond to preserve its purity. The final design featured an innovative heart-like shape, inspired by the royal headwear of Sultans and Maharajas.

This famous diamond was finished with 247 facets, including 164 on the pavilion and crown and 83 on the girdle. These facets were strategically placed to maximize brilliance and fire, making it one of the most visually stunning diamonds in existence. The balance of traditional hand-cutting methods and advanced modern technology solidified its place as a masterpiece in diamond craftsmanship.

How It Compares to Other Famous Diamonds

The Centenary Diamond stands among the greatest diamonds ever found, alongside legendary gems like the Cullinan, Hope Diamond, and the Pink Star. While Cullinan I and Cullinan II are larger than the Centenary, they lack its modern cut and flawless clarity. The Cullinan diamonds, cut in the early 1900s, feature older cutting styles, whereas the Centenary was shaped with state-of-the-art techniques.

Unlike the Hope Diamond, which is famed for its deep blue color and rumored curse, the Centenary shines with a pure, colorless brilliance. It also surpasses many pink diamonds in terms of clarity, as most colored diamonds contain visible inclusions. The Centenary remains one of the largest modern fancy cut diamonds, retaining its place as a true marvel of the jewelry world.

2) The Discovery of the Centenary Diamond Back To Top

The Centenary Diamond was discovered in 1986 at the Premier Mine in South Africa, one of the richest sources of large diamonds. This rough gem, weighing an astonishing 599 carats, was one of the largest top-color diamonds ever found. De Beers Consolidated Mines later presented it to the world at their centennial celebration, marking it as one of the most significant discoveries in diamond history.

2.a) How and Where Was It Found? Back To Top

The diamond was recovered at the Premier Mine, a location renowned for producing some of the most famous diamonds in history, including the Cullinan Diamond. Unlike earlier discoveries, this one was located using advanced X-ray technology, ensuring no valuable rough was overlooked. Its unveiling in 1988 at the De Beers Centennial Celebration cemented its status as a legendary gemstone.

The Role of X-Ray Imaging in Its Discovery

This diamond was not found through traditional sorting methods but through the use of cutting-edge X-ray imaging. This technology allowed miners to detect and recover rough diamonds that might have been missed by manual inspection. The Centenary Diamond was identified deep within the Premier Mine, proving that even the most advanced mining techniques still held the potential for remarkable discoveries.

De Beers engineers developed specialized equipment to ensure that even diamonds embedded within the rock at the Premier Mine, a diamond source, could be detected. The discovery of this 599-carat rough diamond was a breakthrough, demonstrating the efficiency of modern mining methods. Without this technology, such a rare and flawless gemstone might have remained hidden beneath the surface, undiscovered.

Why Its Rough Form Was So Unique

The rough diamond had an irregular shape, making it one of the most challenging large diamonds ever cut. It did not have the smooth, symmetrical appearance of some other famous rough diamonds. Instead, it featured an elongated horn-like extension and deep surface concavities that required careful planning before cutting.

At 599 carats, it was one of the largest diamonds to have been produced at the Premier Mine. However, its unusual structure made the cutting process extremely complex. The De Beers team, led by master diamond cutter Gabi Tolkowsky, had to remove any internal fractures while preserving as much of the stone as possible. The result was a breathtaking 273.85-carat masterpiece, a diamond that remains one of the finest ever crafted.

3) The De Beers Connection: A Celebration of a Century Back To Top

The De Beers centenary diamond became one of the most celebrated discoveries in diamond history when De Beers revealed it at their 100th-anniversary event. Mined from the Premier Mine, this extraordinary gem weighed 599 carats in its rough form. The diamond was later transformed into a flawless 273.85-carat masterpiece, securing its place among the most valuable diamonds ever found, as recognized by the Gemological Institute of America.

3.a) Why Was It Named the Centenary Diamond? Back To Top

This famous diamond was given its name to honor a historic milestone for De Beers Consolidated Mines. Unveiled in 1988 during the centennial celebration, it became the centerpiece of the event. With its flawless clarity and top-color rating, it was a fitting symbol of a century of diamond excellence.

The Historic Event Behind Its Name

De Beers showcased the rough Centenary Diamond to the public on May 11, 1988, marking a key moment in its long history. This rare diamond, discovered at the Premier Mine, was among the largest diamonds ever found. Its unveiling was part of a grand celebration, highlighting De Beers’ dominance in the diamond industry.

The event was more than just a corporate milestone; it was a showcase of one of the most flawless diamonds in the world. Presented in its rough form, the diamond immediately captivated experts and collectors. Its D-color grade and enormous size ensured that it would remain one of the most talked-about gems for decades.

The Chairman’s Iconic Statement

At the 100th anniversary of De Beers Consolidated Mines on May 11, 1988, organizers showed the rough of the Centenary Diamond to the public for the first time. At the time, Julian Oglivie Thompson was the chairman. He said, “We have found a diamond of 599 carats with perfect color at the Premier Mine. It is among the largest top-color diamonds ever found.” It will be called the Centenary Diamond, of course.”

This statement not only emphasized the diamond’s size and quality but also positioned it among the greatest diamonds ever mined. Unlike other famous diamonds, this one had no imperfections. It was a perfect representation of what De Beers had achieved over a century. The chairman’s words reinforced the rarity of such a find and left a lasting impression on the jewelry world.

4) The Cutting and Polishing: A Feat of Engineering Back To Top

Transforming the Centenary Diamond from its rough 599-carat form into a flawless gem required unmatched skill and precision. De Beers selected a team of experts to execute this challenging task, ensuring that every facet of the diamond would enhance its brilliance. The result was a 273.85-carat masterpiece, ranking among the most valuable diamonds in the world.

Gabriel Tolkowsky And The Centenary Diamond

4.a) Who Was Chosen To Head The Team Responsible To Cut the Centenary Diamond? Back To Top

De Beers knew that cutting this diamond required extraordinary expertise. They entrusted the task to Gabi Tolkowsky, one of the most accomplished diamond cutters of his time. Leading a handpicked team, he ensured that the final cut preserved the diamond’s exceptional clarity and size.

The Expertise of Gabi Tolkowsky

Gabi Tolkowsky had a reputation for perfection. Recognized as a master craftsman, he had already worked on some of the most valuable diamonds ever cut. De Beers specifically selected him because of his expertise in handling large, top-color diamonds, ensuring that the Centenary Diamond would be cut with the highest precision.

He was given complete control over the process, from planning to the final cut. Understanding that traditional methods could put the diamond at risk, he developed a strategy that blended hand-cutting techniques with modern tools. His ability to balance science and artistry made him the perfect choice to transform this extraordinary gem.

The Challenges of Cutting a 599-Carat Diamond

The Centenary Diamond’s rough form was irregular, making the cutting process exceptionally difficult. Unlike symmetrical rough stones, it had deep surface indentations and an elongated horn-like extension, making it one of the most challenging diamonds ever cut.

To avoid mechanical vibrations and temperature changes, De Beers constructed a custom-built underground laboratory. This facility at the De Beers Diamond Research Laboratory in Johannesburg ensured that external factors would not interfere with the precision required for cutting. Without these controlled conditions, even a minor miscalculation could have shattered the priceless gem.

4.b) How Was the Centenary Diamond Cut? Back To Top

Tolkowsky’s team approached the cutting process with extreme caution. Instead of using traditional saws or lasers, they relied on hand-cutting techniques to prevent excessive heat or pressure from damaging the diamond. Every step was carefully executed to preserve the purity and structural integrity of the stone.

The Hand Cutting Of The Centenary Diamond Took 154 Days

De Beers’ experts spent 154 days removing 50 carats of cracked material from the rough diamond. Unlike typical cutting processes, this was done entirely by hand to prevent unnecessary stress on the stone. Even the slightest imperfection could have compromised its flawless clarity.

The team worked tirelessly under controlled conditions, analyzing every detail before making cuts. This method ensured that the Centenary Diamond maintained its highest grade of colorless clarity, placing it among the rarest diamonds ever polished. The result was a stunning transformation, setting a new benchmark for diamond cutting.

Why a Modified Heart Shape Was Chosen

De Beers reviewed thirteen different design proposals before selecting the final shape. The modified heart shape was inspired by royal turbans worn by Sultans and Maharajas, adding an element of historic elegance to its design. This unique cut maximized both brilliance and symmetry, enhancing its status as an engineering marvel.

The decision to avoid a traditional round or emerald cut allowed the diamond to retain as much weight as possible while maintaining its structural integrity. The De Beers board ultimately approved this design, ensuring that the Centenary Diamond remained a one-of-a-kind masterpiece.

The Final Facet Count: A Remarkable Achievement

The finished diamond featured a total of 247 precision-cut facets, an achievement that set a new record in diamond cutting. Among these, 164 facets were positioned on the pavilion and crown, while 83 adorned the girdle, optimizing its fire and brilliance.

This intricate facet arrangement enhanced the diamond’s light dispersion, making it one of the most brilliant diamonds ever cut. The final product was not only a symbol of De Beers’ mastery but also a testament to Tolkowsky’s unparalleled skill. The Centenary Diamond remains one of the largest modern fancy-cut diamonds, solidifying its place in diamond history.

5) The Unveiling and Display of the Centenary Diamond Back To Top

The world finally saw the Centenary Diamond after years of meticulous cutting and polishing. De Beers presented the completed 273.85-carat gem in a grand public event, solidifying its status as one of the most extraordinary diamonds ever cut. This unveiling was a landmark moment in diamond history, drawing global admiration.

5.a) How and When Did the World First See It? Back To Top

De Beers revealed the polished Centenary Diamond in May 1991 after an extensive three-year cutting process. This historic moment was the culmination of years of engineering precision and artistic craftsmanship. Once presented, the diamond immediately gained recognition for its flawless clarity and perfect D-color rating.

The Official Unveiling in 1991

De Beers officially unveiled the Centenary Diamond in May 1991, showcasing the transformed gem to the public. This was the first time the world saw the diamond in its final, polished form, a breathtaking contrast to its original rough 599-carat state. The unveiling marked a defining moment for De Beers, proving their expertise in diamond cutting and cementing their legacy in the industry.

The presentation emphasized the diamond’s flawless quality, a rare achievement even among the largest diamonds ever found. With a total of 247 facets, including 164 on the pavilion and crown and 83 on the girdle, it was a masterpiece of precision. The diamond’s remarkable clarity and brilliance ensured its place among the most celebrated diamonds in history.

The Public Display at the Tower of London

Following its unveiling, De Beers loaned the Centenary Diamond to the Tower of London for public display. It remained there for several years, allowing visitors from around the world to admire its unmatched brilliance. This exhibition placed the diamond alongside other legendary gems, such as the Cullinan I and the Koh-i-Noor, further elevating its status.

Displaying the diamond in the Tower of London allowed experts and collectors to study its cut and brilliance up close. The sheer scale of the gem, combined with its flawless nature, left a lasting impression on those who saw it. Even though De Beers no longer owns the Centenary Diamond, its time in the Tower of London cemented its place in history as one of the most valuable and admired diamonds ever displayed.

6) The Mystery of Ownership Of The Centenary Diamond Back To Top

The Centenary Diamond remains one of the most valuable and elusive diamonds in the world. Since its unveiling in 1991, speculation has surrounded its current ownership. While De Beers originally held the diamond, many believe it was later sold to a private collector.

6.a) Who Owns the Centenary Diamond Today? Back To Top

The current owner of the Centenary Diamond is unknown. De Beers has remained silent about whether it still possesses the gem or if it has changed hands. This secrecy has fueled endless speculation about its whereabouts.

De Beers’ Strict Anonymity Policy

De Beers has a long-standing policy of maintaining strict confidentiality regarding high-value diamond transactions. If the Centenary Diamond was sold, the identity of the buyer was never revealed. The company has neither confirmed nor denied whether it still holds the diamond or if it has become part of a private collection.

Over the years, De Beers has handled some of the largest and most expensive diamonds in the world, including the Cullinan and the Star of Africa. Unlike those diamonds, which remain in public collections, the Centenary Diamond’s fate remains uncertain. The lack of official records has made it one of the most mysterious diamonds ever discovered.

Speculations About Its Possible Location

Many believe the Centenary Diamond is now hidden in a private collection, possibly belonging to a royal family or an elite collector. Given its flawless clarity and 273.85-carat weight, it is likely secured in a high-profile vault rather than being worn in jewelry.

Some experts speculate that the diamond could be in the Middle East or Asia, where ultra-wealthy buyers often acquire rare gemstones. Others think it will resurface at an exclusive auction, much like other legendary diamonds. Until then, the Centenary Diamond remains one of the most enigmatic gems ever to be cut and polished.

7) The Value of the Centenary Diamond Back To Top

The Centenary Diamond is one of the most valuable gemstones ever discovered. Its exceptional characteristics make it nearly impossible to assign a definitive price. Unlike other famous diamonds that have been auctioned, this gem has never been publicly appraised.

7.a) How Much Is the Centenary Diamond Worth? Back To Top

The exact value of the Centenary Diamond remains unknown. While it was insured for a staggering amount at the time of its unveiling, its true worth today is purely speculative. Experts consider it one of the rarest and most flawless diamonds in history.

The Initial Insurance Valuation

When the Centenary Diamond was unveiled in 1991, De Beers insured it for over $100 million. This valuation reflected not only its immense 273.85-carat weight but also its flawless clarity and highest D-color grading. Unlike many high-value diamonds that undergo public sales, this gem was never auctioned, making its market value a mystery.

Insurance values often represent a fraction of a gemstone’s potential auction price. If the Centenary Diamond were ever to reappear on the market, it could fetch a much higher sum, considering its status as one of the largest and most prestigious diamonds in existence.

Why It Is Considered “Priceless”

Many experts describe the Centenary Diamond as priceless because of its unique combination of size, color, clarity, and craftsmanship. It is among the finest diamonds ever cut, surpassing many other famous gems in perfection and rarity.

The diamond’s flawless nature, coupled with its modified heart shape and 247 precisely cut facets, elevates it to an unmatched status. Unlike other legendary diamonds, such as the Star of Africa or the Hope Diamond, the Centenary has remained out of circulation, adding to its mystery and allure. Its whereabouts and ownership remain unknown, reinforcing the idea that this diamond is beyond valuation.

8) How the Centenary Diamond Compares to Other Famous Diamonds Back To Top

The Centenary Diamond stands among history’s most exceptional gemstones. Its remarkable clarity, size, and craftsmanship make it a benchmark in the diamond industry. While other diamonds may be larger or more well-known, few match its flawless perfection.

8.a) Is It the Largest D-Color Diamond? Back To Top

Despite its immense size, the Centenary Diamond is not the largest D-color diamond ever discovered. However, it is the largest modern fancy-cut diamond with an internally and externally flawless rating. This distinction places it in a category of its own.

How It Ranks Against the Cullinan Diamonds

The Cullinan I, also known as the Star of Africa, weighs 530.2 carats, making it larger than the Centenary Diamond. Similarly, the Cullinan II, which sits in the British Imperial State Crown, weighs 317.4 carats. However, both Cullinan diamonds lack the Centenary’s flawless clarity and precision-cut design.

While the Cullinan diamonds were cut from the largest rough diamond ever found, they do not share the Centenary Diamond’s perfect D-color grading. The Centenary remains the most refined modern diamond, boasting an unmatched balance of size and flawlessness.

Why It Surpasses the Hope Diamond in Rarity

The Hope Diamond, a deep blue diamond with a storied past, is one of the world’s most famous gems. However, when considering rarity, the Centenary Diamond surpasses it in both purity and perfection.

The Hope Diamond weighs 45.52 carats, significantly smaller than the Centenary Diamond. While its blue hue adds uniqueness, its clarity does not compare to the Centenary’s internally and externally flawless structure. No known diamond of the Hope Diamond’s size carries the same high-quality grading as the Centenary.

How It Stands Against Pink Diamonds

Pink diamonds, like the record-breaking Pink Star, often command some of the highest prices per carat. The Pink Star, which weighs 59.60 carats, sold for over $71 million, making it one of the most expensive diamonds ever auctioned.

Despite their beauty, pink diamonds rarely reach the Centenary Diamond’s level of clarity and size. The Centenary’s 273.85-carat weight and flawless nature set it apart from most colored diamonds. While pink diamonds generate immense value due to their rarity, they cannot rival the precision and perfection of the Centenary Diamond’s D-color grading and intricate 247-facet cut.

9) The Future of the Centenary Diamond Back To Top

The Centenary Diamond remains one of the most valuable and mysterious gems in history. Since its last public display, its whereabouts and potential future remain topics of speculation. Many wonder if it will ever be seen again or if it will reappear in a high-profile sale.

9.a) Will the Centenary Diamond Ever Resurface? Back To Top

The diamond’s absence from public view for decades has led to endless speculation. Some believe it has changed hands privately, while others suggest it remains in a secret collection. If it does reappear, it could be one of the most anticipated gemstone unveilings in history.

Possibilities of an Auction Sale

If the Centenary Diamond were to be auctioned, it could set a new global record for diamond sales. Given its flawless clarity and D-color rating, experts believe it would surpass the prices of other legendary diamonds. The market for investment-grade diamonds has grown, making an auction a real possibility.

Historical diamonds with similar prestige, like the Pink Star and the Oppenheimer Blue, have sold for astronomical prices. However, the Centenary Diamond’s unique attributes, including its 273.85-carat weight and flawless grading, make it a class apart. If sold, it would likely attract interest from elite collectors, royal families, and investment firms.

Could It Be Part of a Nation’s Crown Jewels?

Some believe the Centenary Diamond may have been acquired by a royal family or a national treasury. Large diamonds of historic significance often find their way into state collections, adding to a nation’s cultural and economic assets.

While no official confirmation exists, some speculate that the diamond could now be in the possession of a Middle Eastern or Asian monarch. Given its resemblance to gems found in royal collections, it is not far-fetched to think it may already be set into a ceremonial crown or a high-security vault.

If true, this would place the Centenary Diamond among the most treasured state-owned jewels in history. However, until it resurfaces, its fate remains one of the great mysteries in the diamond world.

10) Conclusion Back To Top

The Centenary Diamond remains one of the most remarkable gemstones ever discovered. Its flawless beauty, mysterious ownership, and unmatched craftsmanship make it an enduring legend in the diamond world. Despite its absence from public view, its impact on the industry is undeniable.

Read About More Famous Diamonds As Follows:

The Orloff Diamond	The Cullinan Diamond
Eureka Diamond	The Esperanza Diamond