Exhibition highlights the Pink Diamond

The French treasure known as the "Pink Diamond," nicknamed "Grand Condé" since the end of the 19th century, is the centerpiece of an exhibition at the Château de Chantilly Museum until January 3, 2027. This exhibition aims to explore the diamond's history and its unique physical properties.

Partnership and support for the exhibition

In partnership with L’École des Arts Joailliers, with the support of Van Cleef & Arpels, the exhibition retraces the history of this stone with an exceptional destiny and unique physical characteristics. These collaborators help bring together historical and scientific perspectives on the diamond.

Origin of the Pink Diamond

The "Pink Diamond" on display at the Château de Chantilly is believed to have originated in India, more specifically in the Golconda region. Specialists agree on this possible origin, although no evidence confirms it, as the geographical origin of diamonds cannot be determined scientifically.

Historical sources of diamonds

During the 18th and 19th centuries, the main sources exploited were notably in India, Borneo, and Brazil. These sources supplied an international trade that provided Europe with diamonds, influencing the global jewelry market and European aristocracy.

Early records of the Pink Diamond

The first certain mention of the "Pink Diamond" appears in 1740, in the inventory of Louis Henri, Duke of Bourbon and Prince of Condé. After his death, the stone is described as a "pink-colored" diamond, marking its early recognition and value.

Inheritance and historical significance

As early as 1753, it was incorporated into a set declared inalienable, intended to be passed down from father to son. It was spared during the French Revolution, then disappeared from records before reappearing in the collections of Queen Marie-Amélie after the sale of the jewelry from the estate of the last Prince of Condé in 1833.

Ownership and museum history

The owners changed hands until the stone eventually joined the collections of the Duke of Aumale, and later those of the Condé Museum. This journey through different owners highlights its historical and cultural significance.

Theft and recovery of the Pink Diamond

Admired for its rarity and beauty, the diamond became the subject of discussion on October 12, 1926, when it was stolen during the robbery of the Condé Museum. The case captivated the international press and mobilized French police as well as the services of Scotland Yard.

Resolution of the theft case

It took two months for the investigation to reach a conclusion worthy of a novel: a maid discovered a large pink stone hidden inside an apple within a hotel room in Paris, near the Est Station. This discovery led to the arrest of the thieves, who had already dismantled and resold most of the other stolen jewelry.

Return and legacy of the Pink Diamond

After a trial just as chaotic, the diamond was returned to the museum in 1928, entering definitively into legend. A century after this robbery, the exhibition reveals the secrets of this stone through previously unseen archives and in-depth scientific analyses.

Exhibition details and future

The Condé Museum at the Château de Chantilly will remain open until January 3, 2027, in partnership with L’École des Arts Joailliers with the support of Van Cleef & Arpels. This exhibition offers a unique opportunity to learn about the history and significance of the Pink Diamond.