The death of Queen Elizabeth has sparked a massive debate around her role in Britain’s colonization of countries across the world , including South Africa. Now, various nations have asked for the return of several diamonds.
A range of diamonds adorns the British crown jewels, including the Great Star of Africa (or Cullinan) one of the largest clear-cut diamonds discovered.
According to CNN, it was mined in South Africa in 1905 and handed over to the British royal family by South Africa’s colonial authorities.
However, as the world stops to mourn the passing of the former monarch, many South Africans have joined the call to have the diamond returned to its home.
According to activist Thanduxolo Sabelo: “The Cullinan Diamond must be returned to South Africa with immediate effect.
“The minerals of our country and other countries continue to benefit Britain at the expense of our people.”
African Transformation Movement (ATM) MP Vuyo Zungula has echoed Sabelo’s sentiments, stating that SA should leave the Commonwealth and demand “reparations for all the harm done by Britain”
A change.org petition has also been launched which seeks the return of the diamond, garnering almost 7000 virtual signatures.
The diamond is reportedly valued at $52 million (R900 million) and weighs 3 106.75 carats. It was cut from the larger gem which was believed to be the size of a human heart and added to the scepter belonging to the Queen, a sacred object which dates back to the 1600s.
Social media users have also added their voices to the growing chorus and demanded the return of several diamonds in the possession of the British family.
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Picture: Twitter/Britanica