All jewellery is special, but some pieces deserve to go down in history. Famous jewellery pieces are not only a marvel for us to behold in museums and pictures, they’re often used to inspire the jewellery of today. There’s a giant treasure trove of legendary pieces, but there are some that just stand out from the rest.
Napoleon Diamond Necklace
This necklace was commissioned by the Emperor Napoleon for his second wife, Marie-Louise, to celebrate the birth of their first son. The necklace featured 234 diamonds, varying in sizes and cuts. The cost of the necklace at the time was believed to be the equivalent of the Empress’s entire annual household budget. Talk about a push present!
The Hope Diamond
One of the most famous diamonds in the world, the Hope diamond has a long but cursed history. It has long since been believed that the owner of the diamond will befall ill fate. This diamond has been long coveted by many, and has been stolen at least 3 times in its history. This piece is worth over $370 million. This piece is on permanent display at the Smithsonian Museum.
The Koh-I-Noor Diamond
One of the largest diamonds in the world, the Koh-I-Noor started at 793 carats. However, after centuries of being passed between rulers throughout the world, the diamond now sits at a (still impressive) 109 carats. This diamond sits atop the coronation crown of the British Royal Family, and sits safely in the Tower of London.
The Dresden Green
This diamond is the largest natural green diamond in the world, sitting at 41 carats. This diamond was mined in India, and purchased in the 18th century for the equivalent of 4 tons of gold. It’s often called the ‘sister’ to the Hope diamond, both for its size, unique appearance and its historical value.
La Peregrina Pearl
This pearl is said to be the most perfect natural pearl in existence. Found off the coast of Panama in the 16th century, the pearl was gifted to Kinf Phillip of Spain, who then presented it to Queen Mary of England as a wedding gift. It is said to be the most symmetrical pearl ever discovered, and was eventually bought by Richard Burton, who had it reset into a Cartier design for Elizabeth Taylor in 1969.
