The Star of Africa, the world’s largest diamond weighing 530 carats and set in the royal sceptre, will be held by King Charles III during his coronation ceremony on Saturday. However, some South Africans are calling on the United Kingdom to return the diamond, which was discovered in South Africa in 1905 and given to the British monarchy two years later. The call for the return of the diamond is part of a global conversation about returning colonial-era artefacts and artwork.
Mothusi Kamanga, a Johannesburg-based lawyer and activist, has promoted an online petition calling for the diamond’s return, stating that “the diamond must return to South Africa.” It must be a symbol of our pride, heritage, and culture.” The petition has received approximately 8,000 signatures.
The Cullinan diamond, from which the Star of Africa was cut, is a 3,100-carat stone mined near Pretoria. Cullinan I, the diamond in the sceptre, and Cullinan II, a smaller diamond cut from the same stone and set in the Imperial State Crown worn by British monarchs, are part of the crown jewels and are kept in the Tower of London. The Cape Town Diamond Museum houses a replica of the entire Cullinan diamond, which is roughly the size of a man’s fist.
Some South Africans believe that the diamond was taken from them during colonial times and that it should be returned to its rightful owners. Everisto Benyera, an associate professor of African Politics at the University of South Africa in Pretoria, stated that “all proceeds of colonialism, the slave trade, and imperialism are illegitimate transactions” and that “the British monarchy must play its part in breaking this colonial relationship by acknowledging the role that it played.” Others believe that the issue is no longer relevant and that things have changed since colonial times.
Local resident Dieketseng Nzhadzhaba stated, “I don’t think it matters any longer.” Things have changed, and we are progressing. “What used to matter to them about being superior… doesn’t matter to us anymore.”
The demand for the return of the Star of Africa is part of a larger discussion about colonialism, its effects on countries and people, and the need for reparations. While some argue that the diamond was given to the British monarchy and has been in their possession for more than a century, others believe it was taken during a time of oppression and is part of their cultural heritage. Whatever the outcome of this particular issue, it raises important questions about the legacy of colonialism and the need for reconciliation and healing.
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