Who Owns The Oppenheimer Diamond? Unveiling The Mystery

The Oppenheimer Diamond is owned by the Smithsonian Institution. In 1964, Harry Winston donated the stone to the Smithsonian Institution in honor of Sir Ernest Oppenheimer, a prominent South African diamond magnate.

The Oppenheimer Diamond, a 555.55-carat rough diamond, is not a gem in the traditional sense. It remains uncut and unpolished, a testament to its unique and historical significance. It was discovered in the Premier Mine in South Africa, known for producing some of the world’s largest diamonds. The diamond’s size and purity made it a remarkable discovery, and it quickly captured the attention of Sir Ernest Oppenheimer, who was the chairman of De Beers Consolidated Mines. Oppenheimer recognized the diamond’s historical importance and its potential to inspire scientific research and public education.

Harry Winston, a renowned American jeweler, purchased the diamond from De Beers in 1953 and held it for over a decade before deciding to donate it to the Smithsonian Institution. Winston’s decision was motivated by a desire to ensure the diamond’s preservation and accessibility to the public. The Smithsonian Institution was the ideal home for the Oppenheimer Diamond, as it houses a world-renowned collection of gems and minerals. The Oppenheimer Diamond is now a star attraction at the National Museum of Natural History, where it is displayed alongside other famous diamonds, showcasing the history and science behind these remarkable stones.