Calls to return the 'Great Star of Africa' diamond

  

Cullinan I, sits in the spire while Cullinan II, adorns the queen's imperial crown. Photo: AP

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by Paula Westerberg 

 

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Since the death of Queen Elizabeth II, voices are being raised in South Africa that Britain should return the diamond "Great Star of Africa", or the Cullinandian diamond as it is also called, reports CNN. 

 

The diamond was found in South Africa in 1905 and was then the largest grindable stone ever found. The colonial authorities bought the diamond and gave it to the British royal family. 

 

But many South Africans believe that Britain obtained the diamond in an illegitimate way. Therefore, some are now demanding that it be returned to be exhibited in a museum in South Africa. 

 

When it arrived in Britain, the diamond was split. The largest part is called Cullinan I and sits at the top of a scepter and the second largest is called Cullinan II and sits in the imperial crown. Both the scepter and the crown are part of the British Crown Jewels.