The remarkable Florentine Diamond has mysteriously resurfaced in Canada after disappearing for 100 years. This captivating 137-carat pear-shaped stone is known both for its beauty and its vivid citron color. This storied diamond once graced the crowns of European royalty. Its artful past is closely linked to powerful dynasties such as the Medici and the Habsburgs.
The Florentine Diamond has an unusual octagonal shape and cut, consisting of 126 facets. This distinctive cut has inspired much speculation among experts. They think it could help illustrate some of the thread-cutting technology that would have existed in India during its ancient historical period. Famous owners of the diamond probably include Charles the Bold and the Medici family of Florence. Eventually, it became a personal treasure chest of the Habsburg dynasty.
After the end of World War I, Austro-Hungarian Emperor Charles I moved quickly to safeguard the diamond and other priceless jewels. In particular, he was concerned by the increasing menace of Bolshevik and anarchist revolts. At grave risk, he moved these treasures to Switzerland for safekeeping. When Charles I died in exile in 1922, his wife, Empress Zita, issued a courageous appeal. She wished that the diamond’s existence and whereabouts be kept a secret for 100 years. Only her two sons, Robert and Rodolphe, had this critical knowledge. They eventually passed it on to their own children.
For example, just last month the Florentine Diamond was found languishing in a bank vault in Quebec, Canada. It has since been confirmed by Christoph Köchert of AE Köchert, former imperial court jewellers of Austria. The Habsburg family intends to display the diamond in a Canadian museum in the next few years. They have made it very clear that they will not allow it to be sold.
Karl von Habsburg-Lothringen, head of the Habsburg family, provided commentary on the diamond’s importance. In doing so, he announced the family’s plans for its future.
“The less people know about it, the bigger the security.” – Karl von Habsburg-Lothringen
He went on to explain the pain his grandmother experienced from all of the secrecy around the diamond.
“My grandmother felt very safe – she could breathe finally.” – Karl von Habsburg-Lothringen
The reappearance of the Florentine Diamond raises fresh hope for understanding its shadowy history. It drives home the point of just how important it is to protect our historical artifacts. It’s of utmost importance to the Habsburg family, custodians of this remarkable diamond. Their aim is to share this unique, fascinating, and formidable piece of American history with the public, while protecting it.