The Cora Sun-Drop Diamond: The Largest Known Yellow Diamond Ever Sold

The Cora Sun-Drop Diamond holds the title of the world’s largest known fancy yellow diamond, weighing an extraordinary 110.3 carats (22.06 grams). In 2011, it made headlines when it sold at Sotheby’s Geneva auction for $12.36 million, setting a world record for yellow diamonds.

This rare gem formed deep within the Earth 1 to 3 billion years ago and was discovered in 2010 in South Africa’s Kimberley Mine. It was later showcased at the Natural History Museum in London before being sold to Cora International. After six months of precision cutting in New York, the dazzling pear-shaped diamond was auctioned and purchased by an anonymous collector via telephone bidding.
 

The Moussaieff Red Diamond: The Most Famous Fancy Red Diamond in the World

Among rare colored diamonds, red diamonds are the rarest. The Moussaieff Red Diamond is the largest Fancy Red diamond ever discovered, weighing 5.11 carats and graded internally flawless.

Discovered in Brazil in the 1990s, this triangular brilliant-cut gem was sold between 2001–2002 for $1.6 million per carat. It has been featured at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History and is considered a legend in the colored diamond market.
 

Darya-ye-Noor Diamond: The Legendary Pink Diamond of Persia

The Darya-ye-Noor, meaning "Sea of Light", is one of the largest pink diamonds in history, weighing approximately 182 carats. It is believed to have originated from the famous Great Table Diamond discovered in India, which weighed 242 carats.

In 1739, it was brought to Persia (modern-day Iran) and became part of the Persian royal regalia. Today, the Darya-ye-Noor is housed in the Central Bank of Iran and remains a centerpiece of the Iranian Crown Jewels.

 

The Hope Diamond: The Most Famous Blue Diamond in History

Weighing 45.52 carats, the Hope Diamond is the largest known natural blue diamond and one of the most iconic gems in history. Its origins trace back over a billion years, with its first known appearance in 17th-century India at the Kollur Mine.

After being purchased by King Louis XIV of France and later re-cut for his crown, the diamond passed through royal hands until it surfaced in England. It was named after Henry Philip Hope, who acquired the gem in the 19th century. Today, the Hope Diamond is displayed at the Smithsonian Museum, where it continues to attract millions of visitors.
 

Dresden Green Diamond: The Largest Natural Green Diamond

The Dresden Green Diamond, weighing 41 carats, is the largest and rarest natural green diamond known. Mined in India’s Golconda region, the diamond’s color and clarity are unmatched, with the GIA grading it as Fancy Green, Internally Flawless.

Discovered in 1722, it became part of the Saxon Royal Court's collection in Germany. After surviving World War II and temporary possession by the Soviets, it was displayed alongside the Hope Diamond at the Smithsonian. Today, it is a highlight exhibit at the Green Vault in Dresden, Germany.
 

The Cullinan Diamond: The Largest Gem-Quality Diamond Ever Found

Discovered in South Africa in 1905, the Cullinan Diamond weighed over 3,100 carats, making it the largest gem-quality diamond ever recorded. Its estimated value today exceeds $21 million.

To protect its journey to England, a decoy was sent publicly, while the real diamond was discreetly shipped. After six months of study, it was cut into 9 major stones (Cullinan I–IX) and 96 smaller gems.

The most famous piece, Cullinan I (Great Star of Africa), weighs 530 carats and is mounted in the British Royal Sceptre. Cullinan II, weighing 317 carats, is set in the Imperial State Crown. Other stones from the Cullinan are part of Queen Elizabeth II’s private jewelry collection.