The Regent Diamond remains one of the most celebrated stones in gem history, defined in part by its exceptional size and crystalline perfection.
Below you will find a detailed overview of the Regent Diamond size, how it compares to other famous diamonds, and why its dimensions continue to matter in today’s luxury market.
| Carat Weight | Approximate Dimensions | Cut Grade | Current Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| 140.64 carats | Approximately 29.0 x 21.8 x 12.9 mm | Old Mine Cut, Cushion Shape | Louvre Museum, Paris |
| Originally 187 carats rough | Largest cross-section visible from crown | Carefully re-cut to preserve weight and clarity | Protected as a national treasure of France |
| D-color, Flawless clarity | Table percentage around 63% | Highly symmetrical facets for brilliance | Set in the Crown of Louis XV for coronations |
Physical Dimensions Of The Regent Diamond
Translating carat weight into real-world measurements helps explain why the Regent Diamond commands attention in any setting.
At 140.64 carats, the stone measures roughly 29 millimeters in length, 22 millimeters in width, and 13 millimeters in depth, making it substantially larger than most jewelry diamonds.
These dimensions place it among the largest colorless diamonds ever discovered, and its cushion cut enhances both presence and light performance.
Historical Weight And Journey From Rough To Polished
Understanding the Regent Diamond size requires looking at its transformation from an even larger rough crystal.
Miners in India originally recovered an 187 carat stone, which later passed through multiple hands before being sent to Europe for meticulous cutting.
Skilled craftsmen reduced the weight by about 46 carats to eliminate inclusions and optimize brilliance, demonstrating that size and quality must often be balanced.
Comparison With Other Famous Colorless Diamonds
Placing the Regent Diamond size in context reveals how rare such large, high-color stones truly are.
Although slightly smaller than the Cullinan I and Cullinan II in modern British Crown Jewels, it remains comparable in visual impact due to its superior clarity and intense D color.
Industry specialists regularly reference these benchmarks when discussing size records and cutting decisions for exceptional rough diamonds.
Modern Valuation And Size Based Premiums
Carat weight is a primary driver of price, and the Regent Diamond size continues to influence its position among legendary stones.
Large D-color diamonds with flawless grades command exponential price increases per carat, and even adjusted for historical context, the Regent Diamond size keeps it in a class of its own.
Museum and insurance valuations reflect both its physical dimensions and its symbolic role in European regal history.
Key Takeaways On Regent Diamond Size
- Carat weight of 140.64 translates to approximately 29 x 22 x 13 millimeters.
- Its cushion cut amplifies presence, making it appear larger than some stones with identical carat weight.
- Originally an 187 carat rough stone, reduced in size to achieve top color and clarity.
- One of the largest colorless diamonds ever recovered, still unmatched in jewelry history.
- Its large dimensions, combined with flawless specifications, secure its status as a global icon.
FAQ
Reader questions
How does the Regent Diamond size compare to a standard engagement ring diamond?
The Regent Diamond at 140.64 carats is over a hundred times larger than most engagement ring diamonds, which typically range from 0.5 to 3 carats, making its physical presence extraordinary.
What were the original rough dimensions before it was cut?
Before polishing, the rough crystal weighed 187 carats and measured closer to 30 millimeters across, meaning craftsmen intentionally reduced size to maximize clarity and brilliance.
Why was the carat weight reduced during cutting?
Removing weight eliminated visible inclusions and allowed cutters to achieve an exceptional D color and flawless clarity, demonstrating that size can be strategically sacrificed for optical perfection.
Can the Regent Diamond size be appreciated properly outside a museum setting?
High-resolution images and strict museum lighting help convey its scale, though viewing it in person remains the only way to fully grasp its impressive dimensions and reflective power.