First Showing of Star of Independence Ends

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Summary

The first public showing of "The Star of Independence," at the Gem Hall of the National Museum of Natural History ends. The 76 carat diamond, which is said to be "one of the largest, least flawed, and most exquisite diamonds cut in the 20th century," was cut from a 204.10 carat rough stone found in 1976 in Sierra Leone and purchased by Harry Winston, the donor of the Hope Diamond. It was then sold to an unidentified purchaser, but its public showing at the Smithsonian was made one of the conditions of the sale.

Subject

  • Winston, Harry 1896-1978
  • Hall of Gems)
  • National Museum of Natural History (U.S.)

Category

Chronology of Smithsonian History

Notes

Torch, 12/1976, p. 3

Contact information

Institutional History Division, Smithsonian Institution Archives, 600 Maryland Avenue, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20024-2520, SIHistory@si.edu

Date

December 1, 1976

Topic

Firsts

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