The Florentine Diamond

Every gem has its own history, often involving mystery and mayhem. This is true story of a diamond that found its way to Europe in the 15th century. Of Indian origin, the large almond-shaped stone was pale yellow with hints of green. Weighing 137 carats, it was cut in a shield shape, with 126 nine-sided facets that radiated gleaming light.

Called the "Florentine," it eventually belonged to the House of Medici, then to the grand dukes of Tuscany and the Austro-Hungarian emperors until, in the 20th century, it simply disappeared. Always surrounded by legend, it has been the subject of much speculation. The current whereabouts of the Florentine Diamond are unknown.Until now.