British Royal Jewels: Cullinan VI and VIII Brooch

Cullinan VI is the large of the two Cullinan marquise-cut diamonds (the smaller one being Cullinan VII) and weighs 11.5 carats. Its setting is very similar to Cullinan V: a marquise pendant set on a fine radiating platinum web in symmetrically scrolling and foliate millegrain and pavé-set brilliant border.

Cullinan VI and VIII Brooch

It is differs from the other stones in that it was purchased by King Edward VII from Asscher in 1908 as a gift for Queen Alexandra. The other stones were gifts to Edward VII from Transvaal (Cullinans I and II), and to Queen Mary from South Africa (Cullinans III, IV, V, VII, VIII, and IX).

Queen Mary wearing the Cullinan VI and VIII brooch on her collar (left) and as part of the Delhi Durbar stomacher (right)

Queen Alexandra had the stone incorporated into a circlet made as a substitute for the Diamond Diadem. In her will, Alexandra left the circlet to her third daughter, Queen Maud of Norway; however, the Cullinan (which was detachable) was bequeathed to Mary of Teck and thus remained with the British Royal Family.

Cullinan VIII is an emerald-cut stone of 6.8 carats. It is set in a delicate scrolled frame and was designed to be used in several ways. Among other uses, it could be incorporated in the Delhi Durbar Stomacher, and fastened to the smaller marquise pendant, Cullinan VII. Sometimes, Queen Mary wore Cullinan V and Cullinan VIII together. The most common usage, however, was together will Cullinan VI.

Queen Elizabeth wearing the Cullinan VI and VIII Brooch in Sudan in 1964 (left) and in Jamaica in 2002 (right)

Queen Elizabeth has worn these stones in only one (known) setting – linked together. Hence, Cullinans VI and VIII are usually grouped together as Cullinan VI and VIII Brooch. The Queen hasn't worn them too often though, which is a bit surprising since she seems to be fond of brooches of this style it’s a pretty light, comfortable brooch to wear as well (certainly nothing like the bulky Granny’s Chips).

To read more about the fascinating story of the uncut diamond, have a look at this article - Day in History: The world’s largest diamond ever, the Cullinan, is found.

Sources and Photo credits: Royal Collection, “Diamond: A Journey to the Heart of an Obsession” by Matthew Hart, “The Queen’s Diamonds” by Hugh Roberts, "The Queen's Jewels" by Leslie Field