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http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/01/08/hope-diamond.html
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Unlock the Mystery Behind The Hope Diamond Glow
Click For Summary
Discussion Overview
The discussion centers around the Hope Diamond, particularly its unique glow after exposure to ultraviolet light, as well as its history and perceptions of its beauty. Participants share personal experiences, historical anecdotes, and varying opinions on the diamond's appearance and significance.
Discussion Character
- Exploratory
- Conceptual clarification
- Debate/contested
Main Points Raised
- Some participants express fascination with the Hope Diamond's glow and beauty, noting its size and color.
- There are claims about the diamond's origins, including a suggestion that it was taken from a Hindu idol, which others challenge.
- A participant with experience in faceting stones discusses the complexities of re-cutting diamonds, implying that the Hope Diamond may have been altered over time.
- Several participants share their personal experiences of seeing the diamond, with mixed feelings about its impressiveness in person compared to its reputation.
- Some participants express skepticism about the diamond's allure, suggesting that it may not live up to the hype surrounding it.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
There is no consensus on the origins of the Hope Diamond, with conflicting views on the story of the Hindu idol. Additionally, opinions vary regarding the diamond's appearance and whether it is impressive in person.
Contextual Notes
Participants reference personal experiences and anecdotal evidence, which may not provide a comprehensive understanding of the diamond's history or characteristics. There are also assumptions about the diamond's re-cutting that are not fully explored.
Who May Find This Useful
Individuals interested in gemstones, the history of the Hope Diamond, or personal anecdotes about visiting museums may find this discussion engaging.
- #2
hypatia
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ohhhh ahhhhhhh that's pretty!
- #3
mapsurfer
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Here is a strange fact... The hope diamond was plucked from the eye of an ancient hindu idol.
ooh.. an idol with a glowing red eye.. lol That is one pretty diamond.
Regards,
-map
ooh.. an idol with a glowing red eye.. lol That is one pretty diamond.
Regards,
-map
- #4
Chronos
Science Advisor
Gold Member
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it was a hindu idol . . . well known for their glowing eyes.
- #5
mcknia07
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Oh, WOW, that is one pretty diamond. I honestly didn't think diamonds could get that big and look so perfect, too.
- #6
bassplayer142
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I saw this diamond about 10 years ago. Too bad I was too young to really remember it.
- #7
mcknia07
- 284
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I'm sure it was extremely beautiful though, dispite the fact you can't remember 
- #8
turbo
Gold Member
- 3,154
- 57
There was NO idol involved, and the stone may have been re-cut several times over the years. I facet stones as a hobby, and re-faceting is a procedure fraught with problems - you always lose mass when trying to re-cut to maximize brilliance or to improve symmetry.
- #9
Evo
Staff Emeritus
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Here is the history of the Hope Diamond. I've seen it a couple of times and it's not that impressive in person, I guess due to all of the hype.
http://www.si.edu/Encyclopedia_SI/nmnh/hope.htm
http://www.si.edu/Encyclopedia_SI/nmnh/hope.htm
- #10
bassplayer142
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I remember it a little, just not as much as I wish I did. It was behind some showcase. I'm pretty sure I saw it in Washington DC somewhere. Not the Smithsonian.
- #11
Garth
Science Advisor
Gold Member
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Evo said:
You're obviously a high maintenance lady Evo!
Garth
- #12
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Garth said:
No kidding. If you can't impress a lady with the Hope Diamond...- #13
Isarmann
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It's hard to look impressive behind four-inch thick glass... I remember thinking it looks pretty pedestrian, too--- but I'll bet we'd change our collective tune if we could hold the thing!
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