The Smithsonian's National Museum of Natural History will place the 31.06-carat Wittelsbach-Graff Diamond on display on January 28. This marks the first time in more than a half-century that the Wittelsbach gem has been on public display. The famed Hope Diamond is also being exhibited at the museum.



The Smithsonian announced that tests will be conducted in order to learn whether both diamonds originated from the same mine in India where the Hope Diamond originated.



First reports about the Wittelsbach Diamond appear in the 1660s when Philip IV of Spain gave it to his daughter prior to her marriage to Emperor Leopold I of Austria.

The famous diamond later became the property of the Wittelsbachs, the ruling family of Bavaria. The 35.56-carat blue diamond was auctioned last year by Christie's in London for more than $24 million. The buyer was fine jeweler Laurence Graff, who stated: "To have two of the world's most historical stones — the Wittelsbach-Graff and the Hope Diamond — displayed together, is a testament to the diamonds' history and importance. I believe the diamond's appearance at the Smithsonian will represent another significant chapter in its remarkable history."



Several months ago, the museum chose a unique way to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Hope Diamond’s arrival at the Smithsonian Institution; officials commissioned three new designs for the diamond’s next setting. The US public was asked to choose its preference among the three settings, and the diamond is scheduled to go on display in the winning setting next year. After about six months it will go back to its historic setting, and will be placed on display in its original form.