Diamonds, the epitome of beauty, rarity, and everlasting elegance, have captured human fascination for centuries. In the 21st century, these precious gems continue to captivate our attention with their extraordinary size, unparalleled brilliance, and astonishing prices. From historic jewels with legendary stories to contemporary marvels unearthed from deep within the Earth, let’s explore the world of the best diamonds that have graced this century.

The World’s Most Famous Diamonds

1. The Cullinan Diamond: Discovered in 1905, the Cullinan Diamond, the largest gem-quality diamond ever found, continues to hold its place as a paragon of magnificence. This diamond was cut into several stunning gems, some of which adorn the British Crown Jewels.

2. The Hope Diamond: Though not discovered in this century, the Hope Diamond remains a captivating symbol of mystery and allure. With its deep blue color and storied history, this diamond has enthralled generations.

3. The Koh-i-Noor: Another historic diamond that has left an indelible mark is the Koh-i-Noor. Its name means “Mountain of Light,” and it has passed through the hands of various rulers due to its believed mystical powers.

The 10 Most Expensive Diamonds in the World

In recent times, diamonds have fetched astonishing prices at auctions and private sales, reflecting their desirability and investment value. Some of the most expensive diamonds in the world this century include:

1. The Pink Star: A mesmerizing 59.60-carat pink diamond that set a record as the most expensive gem ever sold at auction in 2017.

2. The Oppenheimer Blue: A stunning 14.62-carat blue diamond that attained the title of the most expensive blue diamond ever sold at auction in 2016.

3. The Blue Moon Diamond: This remarkable 12.03-carat blue diamond achieved fame as one of the most expensive diamonds per carat, sold in 2015.

4. The Graff Pink: A vivid pink diamond weighing 24.78 carats that set a record for the most expensive pink diamond ever sold at auction in 2010.

5. The CTF Pink Star: A colossal 59.60-carat pink diamond that gained prominence for being one of the most expensive diamonds ever sold, both at auction and privately.

6. The Winston Pink Legacy: A rare 18.96-carat pink diamond sold by Harry Winston in 2018 for an impressive sum.

7. The Perfect Pink Diamond: A captivating 14.23-carat pink diamond that fetched a substantial price due to its exquisite color and clarity.

8. The Sweet Josephine Diamond: This heart-shaped 16.08-carat pink diamond was named after its current owner’s daughter.

9. The Martian Pink Diamond: A unique purplish-pink diamond that gained attention for its unearthly hue.

10. The Unique Pink Diamond: A fancy vivid pink diamond of 15.38 carats that attained significant recognition for its exceptional color.

The Giants of the Diamond Industry: Exploring the World’s Biggest Diamond Companies

In the fascinating realm of precious gemstones, diamonds reign supreme as timeless symbols of luxury, rarity, and elegance. The diamond industry, marked by its intricate supply chain and global influence, is dominated by a select group of corporations that have carved their way to the top. These companies are responsible for the extraction, trading, and often even the retailing of these precious gems.

1. De Beers Group: A Legacy of Brilliance

Boasting a legacy that spans over a century, the De Beers Group stands as a towering presence in the diamond industry. Founded by Cecil Rhodes, De Beers has played a pivotal role in shaping the diamond market. Operating across the entire diamond pipeline, from mining and exploration to trading and retail, the company’s influence is felt worldwide.

2. ALROSA: Russia’s Diamond Powerhouse

Hailing from the diamond-rich terrains of Russia, ALROSA is renowned as one of the world’s largest producers of rough diamonds. With a vast array of mining operations, the company is a dominant force in the diamond extraction landscape, fueling global demand for these precious stones.

3. Rio Tinto Diamonds: A Multinational Gem

As part of the illustrious Rio Tinto Group, Rio Tinto Diamonds stands at the crossroads of mining, exploration, and marketing. This multinational corporation is instrumental in maintaining a steady flow of diamonds to the market, ensuring a dynamic equilibrium between supply and demand.

4. Petra Diamonds: Crafting Excellence

Petra Diamonds, with its operational presence in multiple African countries, stands out as a noteworthy contributor to the diamond industry. The company’s commitment to excellence and quality has earned it a reputation as a reliable supplier of rough diamonds.

5. Lucara Diamond Corp: Unearthing Exceptional Gems

Lucara Diamond Corp, through its operation of the Karowe Mine in Botswana, has made waves by unearthing exceptional diamonds of unparalleled quality. Their discoveries have not only garnered attention but have also underscored the potential for remarkable finds in even the most established diamond-producing regions.

6. Gem Diamonds: The Pursuit of Rarity

Gem Diamonds, steward of the famed Letšeng diamond mine in Lesotho, specializes in extracting remarkable, high-quality diamonds. Their pursuit of rarity sets them apart in an industry where uniqueness is highly prized.

7. Dominion Diamond Mines: Canadian Excellence

Dominion Diamond Mines, based in Canada, plays a significant role in the global diamond supply chain. With a focus on responsible mining practices, the company contributes to Canada’s status as a respected diamond-producing nation.

8. Mountain Province Diamonds: A Collaborative Approach

In partnership with De Beers, Mountain Province Diamonds contributes to the Gahcho Kué diamond mine in Canada. This collaboration highlights the importance of synergistic efforts in the diamond industry’s complex ecosystem.

10. Stornoway Diamonds: Commitment to Craftsmanship

Stornoway Diamonds, with its Renard Diamond Mine in Canada, embodies a commitment to craftsmanship and ethical diamond sourcing. Their contribution underscores the industry’s shift toward responsible practices.

11. Firestone Diamonds: Shaping the Future

With its operations in Lesotho, Firestone Diamonds actively shapes the diamond industry’s future. Through innovative exploration and mining approaches, the company continues to uncover new possibilities within the diamond landscape.

Conclusion

In the ever-evolving tapestry of the diamond industry, the 21st century has unveiled a dazzling array of exceptional gems that have left an indelible mark on both history and culture. These remarkable diamonds, with their breathtaking beauty and remarkable qualities, have captured the imagination of enthusiasts, collectors, and connoisseurs alike. As we reflect on these best diamonds of the 21st century, we’re reminded that their allure extends beyond their monetary value. They stand as symbols of human ingenuity, resilience, and the enduring fascination with nature’s most exquisite creations. In the years to come, it’s certain that new discoveries will continue to shape the narrative of the diamond industry, perpetuating the timeless allure that only these precious gems can evoke.