The largest green diamond in the world is the Dresden Green Diamond.
This exceptional gem, weighing 40.70 carats, stands as the largest and finest natural green diamond ever discovered. Its unparalleled color and clarity have cemented its status as one of the most historically significant diamonds in existence.
The Magnificent Dresden Green Diamond
The Dresden Green Diamond is not just remarkable for its size and color but also for its fascinating history and unique origin. It is a pear-shaped, internally flawless diamond that exhibits a pure, vibrant apple-green hue. This magnificent gem has captivated royalty and gem enthusiasts for centuries.
Key Characteristics of the Dresden Green
To better appreciate its significance, here are some key details about the Dresden Green Diamond:
| Characteristic | Detail |
|---|---|
| Carat Weight | 40.70 carats |
| Color | Fancy Green (natural, evenly distributed) |
| Clarity | Internally Flawless (IF) |
| Cut | Pear-shaped (modified pendeloque or almond brilliant) |
| Origin | Likely Golconda mines, India |
| Current Home | Green Vault (Grünes Gewölbe), Dresden, Germany |
The diamond's extraordinary green color is entirely natural, a rare occurrence caused by prolonged exposure to natural radiation during its formation within the Earth. Unlike many other colored diamonds, its color is consistent throughout the stone, not just on the surface.
A Jewel of Royal History
The Dresden Green Diamond's journey through history is as rich and colorful as the diamond itself.
- Early History: Believed to have originated from the legendary Golconda mines in India, the diamond first appeared in the public record in the early 18th century.
- Royal Acquisition: It was acquired by Frederick Augustus II of Saxony in 1741, who was then King of Poland and Elector of Saxony. He purchased it from a Dutch merchant for an immense sum, reflecting its rarity and beauty.
- Setting: It was famously incorporated into an elaborate hat ornament, surrounded by 411 smaller diamonds, by the royal jeweler Dinglinger. This setting is still its primary display form today.
- Public Display: For over 200 years, the Dresden Green has been a highlight of the famous Green Vault museum in Dresden, a testament to the Saxon electoral and royal treasury. It has also been featured in notable international exhibitions, drawing immense interest from around the globe.
Comparison with the Hope Diamond
The Dresden Green has long been considered a "sister" to the equally famous Hope Diamond. This comparison is due to their striking similarities in several aspects:
- Size: Both are significant diamonds, closely matching in their substantial carat weights.
- Intensity of Color: While one is a deep blue and the other a vivid green, both possess an intense, saturated color that is incredibly rare in the diamond world.
- Historical Importance: Both diamonds boast a rich, documented history of royal ownership and public fascination, making them cultural icons as much as precious gems.
- Origin: Both are believed to originate from the same legendary Golconda mines, known for producing some of the world's most famous and extraordinary diamonds.
The Dresden Green Diamond, with its unique characteristics and storied past, remains a pinnacle of natural beauty and a testament to the wonders found deep within the Earth.
