| Weight | 90.38 carats (18.076 g) |
|---|---|
| Color | D (colorless) |
| Cut | briolette |
| Country of origin |  India |
| Mine of origin | India |
| Original owner | The earliest reported owner is Eleanor of Aquitaine |
| Owner | Heidi Horten |
| Estimated value | US $7 million (2023) |
The Briolette of India is a colorless diamond (weighing 90.38 carats (18.076 g)) that was found in India. It is cut in a briolette shape, and is a D-coloured (colourless) type IIa diamond.[1] Its history was thought to date from the 12th century, when it was first acquired by Eleanor of Aquitaine, the Queen consort of King Louis VII of France between 1137 and 1152. This makes the Briolette of India the oldest diamond on record in the world, even older than the famous Koh-i-Noor.[1][2]
The diamond was in the possession of several famous historical figures such as King Richard the Lion Heart, who carried it with him to the Third Crusade, and King Henry II of France who presented it to his mistress Diane de Poitiers.[3]
The Briolette of India has disappeared from records for long periods, sometimes even for several centuries, before resurfacing again. It was last owned by Austrian heiress Heidi Horten, until auctioned by Christie's in June 2023 where it sold for 6.6 million Swiss Francs. Its current ownership has not been publicly stated.[4]
- ^ a b "Briolette of India Diamond". Internet Stones. Retrieved 16 November 2008.
- ^ "Briolette". DiamondDictionary.org. 14 September 2007. Archived from the original on 3 November 2010. Retrieved 19 March 2010.
- ^ "Diamond Facts". Jeweler.com. Archived from the original on 23 December 2008. Retrieved 16 November 2008.
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