Three Brothers (jewel)

The Three Brothers was a famous and historically significant jewel, known for its unusual design and association with European royalty. It was a large, rectangular cut gem with three smaller gemstones (possibly diamonds or pearls, historical accounts vary) set on top in a trefoil arrangement, hence its name.

Its provenance is somewhat murky, but it is believed to have originated in India and was acquired by the Fugger banking family in the 16th century. The Fuggers were prominent financiers in Augsburg, Germany, and possessed immense wealth. They subsequently sold the jewel to King Francis I of France.

The Three Brothers became a part of the French Crown Jewels and was passed down through successive monarchs. Its history is intertwined with significant events in European history. Notably, it was pledged to raise funds and played a role in various financial transactions of the French monarchy.

The jewel was eventually acquired by King James I of England in the early 17th century. During his reign, it was reset into a larger jewel. Later, under King Charles I, the jewel was sold to finance the English Civil War.

After passing through several hands, the Three Brothers disappeared from historical records. Its current whereabouts are unknown, and it is believed to have been lost, stolen, or broken up and recut into smaller gems. The story of the Three Brothers jewel remains a fascinating tale of wealth, power, and the vagaries of historical fortune.