Tavernier Blue
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The Tavernier Blue was the precursor diamond to the Blue Diamond of the Crown (aka the French Blue), and subsequently the Hope Diamond. This had been accepted by many historians and gemologists for years and was scientifically proven with 3D imaging and prototyping technology in 2005.
Weighing 112 3/16-carats (110.5 modern metric carats), the crudely cut gem was described by Tavernier as a "beautiful violet" and brilliant in clarity and rare in color. The diamond was likely cut from the Kollur mine in Golconda, India.
After being stolen from the French Crown Jewels in 1792 during the turbulence of the French Revolution, the French Blue was then cut into the Hope Diamond in an attempt to prevent its proper identification.
Jean-Baptiste Tavernier was a French traveller and trader, returning to France from India with many of the largest gems of the era, which he primarily sold to the French royalty and aristocracy.
