Welcome to the fourth installation of the Cursed Series! In previous entries, we’ve explored some of the world’s most enigmatic and eerie gemstones, including the Delhi Purple Sapphire, Hope Diamond, and Koh-i-Noor Diamond. Today, we’ll delve into the fascinating world of cursed jewels by examining the stories, mythology, and history behind the Black Orlov Diamond, Regent Diamond, and the Curse of the Cheapside Hoard.

The Black Orlov Diamond via GIA

The Black Orlov Diamond – The Eye of Brahma

The Black Orlov Diamond, known as the “Eye of Brahma,” is a captivating 67.50-carat black diamond with a history steeped in intrigue and superstition. Originally part of a larger stone that adorned the eye of a Hindu idol in a sacred temple in India, it was removed, setting in motion a series of ominous events.

The diamond’s ominous reputation began when it was stolen by a Hindu monk from its sacred setting, leading to tales of misfortune and tragedy for its various owners. Some say it was cursed due to its theft, as the thieving monk was soon murdered after his crime, while others believe it was already cursed to begin with.

Princess Irina Nikolaïevna Orlova and her brother ©Universal Art Archive via Alamy

The Black Orlov has a chilling history associated with three alleged suicides. The first known tragedy unfolded when a diamond dealer named J.W. Paris took his own life by jumping from a New York City skyscraper in 1932 after acquiring the diamond. Then, two subsequent owners, Princess Nadia Vygin-Orlov and her daughter Leonila, reportedly met similarly grim fates. Nadia committed suicide in 1947, and her daughter followed suit in 1969, both succumbing to self-inflicted gunshot wounds.

While these suicides are often attributed to the curse of the Black Orlov Diamond, it’s crucial to remember that the connection between these tragic events and the gemstone remains a matter of speculation and superstition. The diamond’s unsettling history has given rise to the belief that it carries a malevolent force. This enigmatic gemstone is one of the most infamous cursed jewels in history.

The Regent Diamond – A Jewel with a Dark Past

The Regent Diamond is a mesmerizing 140.64-carat diamond with a history fraught with misfortune and drama. The captivating history of the Regent Diamond includes a lesser-known but equally intriguing chapter involving a slave named Golo. Golo, who discovered the diamond in the mines of India in the 17th century, showed remarkable cunning by smuggling the diamond away in a wound in his leg. This daring act allowed him to escape with the precious gem. However, Golo’s fortunes turned sinister when he encountered a captain who promised him 50% of the profit from the diamond’s sale. In a tragic twist, the unscrupulous captain betrays Golo and murders him, hoping to claim the entire treasure for himself.

The chaos and turmoil of the French Revolution darkens the Regent Diamond’s history. The French government acquired it during the reign of Louis XV. The diamond’s name, “Regent,” reflects its role in French royal history, as King Louis XV initially wore it as a personal adornment.

Detail of Napoleon’s Portrait with Sword via Wikipedia

Amid the French Revolution, the diamond vanished from the Royal Store and disappeared for a time. It re-emerged when it was acquired by Napoleon Bonaparte, who had it set in the hilt of his sword, adding a touch of grandeur to his regal attire. Napoleon’s second wife, Archduchess Marie Louise of Austria, carried the Régent back to Austria upon his exile. Over the years, the Regent Diamond was also owned by other prominent figures in European history, including Louis XVIII and Charles X. Some say it carries a curse related to the suffering of those who acquired it, while others suggest it was cursed long before.

Cheapside Hoard via My London News

The Curse of the Cheapside Hoard – A Hidden Treasure with a Dark Secret

The Curse of the Cheapside Hoard unveils a mysterious and ominous story surrounding an extraordinary jewelry collection and artifacts. Discovered in 1912 beneath a cellar in Cheapside, London, this hidden treasure contained an astonishing array of gemstones, including intricate and ornate pieces of jewelry from the 17th century.

The Cheapside Hoard is renowned not only for its historical significance but also for the strange and unsettling events that have befallen those who have owned or interacted with its contents. From a magnificent emerald watch to a mesmerizing Colombian emerald and pearl brooch, these valuable pieces have a history laced with curses and ill fortune.

Cheapside Photographed in 1909 via Wikipedia

The curse is said to strike those who attempt to lay claim to these precious artifacts. One of the more notable accounts involves a man named George Rogers, who acquired some of the pieces from the Cheapside Hoard. Shortly after obtaining these treasures, his life took a tragic turn. Rogers experienced a rapid decline in his health and well-being, ultimately leading to his untimely demise. The inexplicable nature of his suffering left those around him convinced that the curse of the Cheapside Hoard had claimed yet another victim.

Conclusion: The Cursed Gemstones – Fact or Fiction?

The stories surrounding the Black Orlov Diamond, Regent Diamond, and the Cheapside Hoard are captivating, but are they true? It’s up to you to decide whether you believe in the power of curses and bad luck associated with these gemstones or if it’s simply folklore and coincidence.

As we continue our exploration of cursed gemstones throughout history, it’s essential to approach these tales with a sense of curiosity and wonder. Whether you’re a gemstone enthusiast, history buff, or just someone who appreciates the mysterious and macabre, these cursed gemstones remind us that the world of jewelry and gemstones is filled with stories that go far beyond their sparkling exteriors.

Keep your eyes peeled for more in our Cursed Series as we continue to explore the world of gemstones and their mysterious, sometimes eerie, histories. And remember, when it comes to cursed gemstones, wear them at your own risk!

Don’t forget to read the other three parts of the Cursed Series for more intriguing stories about these enigmatic gemstones.