Diamond Presentation: Art, History and Evolution

Until the early 18th century, most of the world's diamonds were found in India. Natural historians of the ancient world, like modern gemologists, have long been fascinated by this coveted gemstone. Following diamonds' trade routes, from ancient Indian mines to 21st-century technologies, L’ÉCOLE invites visitors to rediscover this iconic mineral.  

From rough stones to brilliant cuts, this exploration traces the many journeys of diamonds from East to West, offering an immersive experience within the dazzling gemstone and showcasing two sets of famous diamond replicas: the Tavernier set and The Lesotho Legend. The Tavernier set reveals the Mughal cuts of the 17th century, which have long since been forgotten; while Lesotho Legend utilizes modern diamond cutting technology.  

Join us to discover this unforgettable diamond journey at L’ÉCOLE! 

This presentation presented at L’ÉCOLE Asia Pacific, School of Jewelry Arts retraces the history of the diamonds purchased by Louis XIV from the trader and traveler Jean-Baptiste Tavernier in 1668.

A fabulous story based on a journey from the Mogul Empire of India and the diamond mines of Golkonda to France under the reign of the Sun King and the Château de Versailles, a journey made along the trade routes connecting East to West. Amongst the several thousand diamonds brought from India by Tavernier and offered to the Sun King in 1668, twenty stood out for their breathtaking beauty. They all disappeared in the 19th century, with the exception of the Blue Diamond, but are brought back to life here through this showcase presented by L'ECOLE, School of Jewelry Arts, with the support of Van Cleef & Arpels. 

The catalog of this exhibition is available in English. 
Editor: L’ÉCOLE, School of Jewelry Arts 
Price: HK$180