10 of the World’s Most Controversial Gemstones
These precious stones’ pasts are far from sparkly.
By Indi Bains
Jul 17, 2023
Mental Floss online magazine
“Gems have been coveted for thousands of years—hoarded by rulers, looted by opportunists, used as bargaining chips by the desperate, and deployed in portraiture to signify wealth and status. Individual gems, inherited through generations, have dense and illustrious histories of passing between allies and foes that sometimes add to their value and allure. But many of the world’s most famous jewels hide a controversial or mysterious past behind their glittering façades.” – Mental Floss
The 10 most controversial gemstones according to Mental Floss are:
1. The Cullinan Diamond
2. La Peregrina Pearl
3. The Koh-i-noor Diamond
4. The Black Prince’s Ruby
5. The Hope Diamond
6. The Hortensia Diamond
7. The Lahore Diamond
8. The Timur Ruby
9. The Star of Asia
10. The Tiffany Diamond
To find out why these are considered controversial, read the full story in Mental Floss. Several video clips are also provided.
(There are a few questionable comments, but overall, they do make an excellent point.)
