Since its discovery in seventeenth–century India, the Hope diamond, a glimmering deep blue gem weighing over 45 carats, has been shrouded in mystery and steeped in intrigue. Dr. Richard Kurin, Distinguished Scholar and Ambassador at Large from the Smithsonian, goes beyond the speculation to reveal the truth behind a legendary stone.
Kurin, a cultural anthropologist, spent more than a decade on the trail of the legendary gem. But the ‘curse’ that surrounds it is only one small piece of a long and lustrous story that moves between ancient religion and modern magic, royal power and class rivalry, revenge and greed. In this lecture, Kurin traces the journey of this legendary gem. A booksigning will follow.
Free with museum admission!
Smithsonian affiliation supported by the MassMutual Foundation.