Looks like the death of Queen Elizabeth II has sparked a national debate in South Africa over the possession of the largest known clear-cut diamond, the Great Star of Africa.
Calls are now being made to the Royal Family to return the African nation’s precious diamond—also known as Cullinan l—which is currently mounted on a royal sceptre belonging to the Queen.
“The Cullinan Diamond must be returned to South Africa with immediate effect,” activist Thanduxolo Sabelo told the Sunday Times newspaper. “The minerals of our country and other countries continue to benefit Britain at the expense of our people,” he added.
The Cullinan diamond was named after a South African diamond magnate, Sir Thomas Cullinan. The Twitter handle for Africa Archives, an account that keeps track of the historical, cultural, and photographic records of Africa, is also demanding that the jewels be returned.
“WE AFRICANS DEMAND THE RETURN OF ‘THE GREAT STAR OF AFRICA’ BACK TO AFRICA IN SOUTH AFRICA WHERE IT BELONGS,” READ THE POST.
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“Queen Elizabeth II owns the largest clear-cut diamond in the world Known as ‘The Great Star of Africa’ the 530 carats gem was mined in South Africa back in 1905. It was stolen from South Africa. It has an estimated worth of $400 million…The British claim that it was given to them as a symbol of friendship and peace yet it was during colonialism. The British then replaced the name ‘The Great Star of Africa’ with [the] name of Chairman of Mine “Thomas Cullinan.”
Queen Elizabeth II was laid to rest at Windsor Castle following her funeral Monday at Westminster Abbey. She died at the age of 96 on Sept. 8 after more than 70 years on the throne.