One of the world's most famous items of jewellery, the Hope Diamond, has been integrated into a new platinum setting following an online vote.

Called Embracing Hope, the setting was designed by Harry Winston Inc and will be married with the Hope Diamond for a limited time only.

It was placed on public display at the Smithsonian's National Museum of Natural History on 18th November as part of celebrations called to mark the 50th anniversary of the diamond's donation to the museum and the institution's 100th birthday.

The gem is already the most-viewed object at the entire Smithsonian, attracting seven million visitors a year.

It was donated to the museum in 1958 by jeweler Harry Winston having made its way into his hands via the French royal family and Pierre Cartier, among others.

Commenting on the new display, museum director Cristian Samper said: "Looking back on the past 100 years of the museum's history, it is undeniable that the arrival of the Hope Diamond is one of the most important historical landmarks.

"Without it, the National Gem Collection wouldn't be what it is today, one of the largest and most important gem collections in the world. It is fitting that we celebrate that milestone with another, the unveiling of the Hope Diamond as visitors have never seen it before."

The Embracing Hope design was chosen following an online poll organised by the Smithsonian Channel which attracted more than 100,000 votes.

It took eight months to bring to life and comprises a platinum wrap for the deep blue diamond, embellished by 340 baguette diamonds.

At the end of the display the Blue Diamond will be returned to the Cartier setting with which it has been associated since the beginning of the 20th century.

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Smithsonian Unveils Hope Diamond in New Setting Designed by Harry Winston Inc (18/11/10)

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