The Hope Diamond & Harry Winston: A Tale of Mystery, Majesty, and Magnificence
- Charlotte Rose
- Apr 17
- 3 min read
Uncover the rich history of the world’s most famous blue diamond and the man who gave it to the people
Few gemstones in the world have captivated the public imagination quite like the Hope Diamond.
Its deep-blue hue, storied provenance, and alleged curse have made it a cultural icon — and one of the most visited museum pieces in history.
But behind the legend is also the remarkable story of Harry Winston, the visionary American jeweller whose generosity and showmanship helped make the Hope Diamond a global treasure.
In this blog, we explore the history of the Hope Diamond, its extraordinary journey through time, and how Harry Winston's legacy secured its place in the Smithsonian forever.
The Origins of the Hope Diamond
Weight: 45.52 carats
Colour: Fancy Dark Grayish Blue
Type: Type IIb diamond (rare and semiconductive)
Origin: India — likely from the Kollur Mine, Golconda region
The diamond’s history dates back to the 17th century, when a much larger blue diamond (over 112 carats) was acquired by Jean-Baptiste Tavernier, a French gem merchant, who sold it to King Louis XIV in 1668. The stone was then recut and became known as the French Blue.
A Royal Stone, Lost to Revolution
Set in the crown jewels of France, the French Blue was worn by Louis XIV and passed down through the royal family. But during the French Revolution, the crown jewels were looted — and the diamond vanished.
Decades later, a smaller blue diamond appeared in London. It was eventually acquired by Henry Philip Hope, a wealthy collector and namesake of the gem. The diamond became known as the Hope Diamond, and remained in his family for several generations.
Scandal, Glamour & a Curse?
Throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, the Hope Diamond changed hands numerous times — passing through aristocrats, heiresses, and socialites. Each ownership was often followed by stories of tragedy or misfortune, fuelling rumours of a "curse."
American mining heiress Evalyn Walsh McLean purchased the Hope Diamond in 1911 from Cartier and famously wore it to parties and even on her dog’s collar. After her death, her estate — including the diamond — was sold to pay debts.
Enter Harry Winston: The King of Diamonds
In 1949, legendary jeweller Harry Winston acquired the Hope Diamond from McLean’s estate. Known as the "King of Diamonds," Winston was a master gem dealer and philanthropist with a passion for sharing beauty with the public.
For nearly a decade, he showcased the Hope Diamond around the U.S. as the star of his "Court of Jewels" — a travelling exhibition of rare and historic gems aimed at raising money for charities and museums.
A Gift to the Nation
On November 10, 1958, Harry Winston made a decision that stunned the world: he donated the Hope Diamond to the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of Natural History in Washington, D.C.
He sent it via U.S. registered mail in a plain brown package — insured for $1 million.
Winston’s gift helped establish the Smithsonian’s gem collection as one of the finest in the world, and the Hope Diamond remains its most iconic piece. To date, it has attracted over 100 million visitors.
Harry Winston’s Legacy
Harry Winston's decision to donate the Hope Diamond wasn’t just an act of generosity — it was an enduring statement that beauty belongs to the world.
Winston went on to become one of the most influential jewellers of the 20th century, known for adorning Hollywood’s elite, pioneering diamond cuts, and shaping the modern luxury jewellery industry.
His legacy lives on through:
The House of Harry Winston, a global jewellery brand
His support of gemological research and museum curation
The continuing public fascination with the Hope Diamond
Furlong Insight: Why the Hope Diamond Still Matters
“The Hope Diamond is not just a gem — it’s a story. A piece of history that’s passed through kings, collectors, and visionaries like Harry Winston. It reminds us that every stone has a soul, and sometimes, a legacy.”— Charlotte Rose, Head of Jewellery, Furlong Auction House
Did You Know?
The Hope Diamond glows red under ultraviolet light due to its unique phosphorescence
It's believed to be one of the rarest coloured diamonds in the world
Its setting has been updated several times over the years, but its current display remains a showstopper
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