Hope Diamond Curse
The Hope Diamond, a 45.52-carat blue gem, allegedly brings misfortune to its owners. Jean-Baptiste Tavernier supposedly was torn apart by wolves. Marie Antoinette wore it before her beheading. Evalyn McLean's family suffered tragedies. Now at the Smithsonian, it attracts 6 million visitors yearly.
The world’s most famous cursed gemstone.
The Diamond
The gem weighs 45.52 carats and displays a deep blue color. Originally 115 carats, it came from India and now resides at the Smithsonian.
The Legend
First owner Jean-Baptiste Tavernier brought it from India. Legend claims he was torn apart by wolves, though he actually died at age 84. The legend grew after his death.
Marie Antoinette
French royalty owned the diamond before being beheaded in the Revolution. The curse was blamed, though the execution was actually political. The diamond was stolen in 1792.
The McLean Tragedies
Evalyn Walsh McLean bought the diamond in 1911. Her son died in a car crash, her daughter overdosed, her marriage failed, and she faced financial ruin.
The Smithsonian
In 1958, Harry Winston donated the diamond to the Smithsonian by regular mail. It has become a national attraction, seen by 6 million visitors yearly.
The Truth
A skeptical view reveals many owners lived well. Deaths were cherry-picked. There’s no actual curse, just good storytelling that adds mystique to an already remarkable gem.