The Hope Diamond, a mysterious blue gem, was donated to the Smithsonian's National Museum of Natural History over 50 years ago. Next month, the museum is celebrating the anniversary of the diamond by having a new setting designed for it.

However, until the new setting is ready, the 45.52 carat diamond will be exhibited as a stand-alone gem. Although the rock has been removed from its setting before, this is the first time it will be displayed as such.

The legendary stone was donated to the museum by New York jeweler Harry Winston, and now his company is designing three possible new settings. Beginning tomorrow, the public is given the chance to vote online for their favorite.

Later this year the winning setting will be announced and the gem will be displayed in the setting starting next May – right in time to mark the premier of a Smithsonian Channel documentary about The Hope Diamond.

Previously, the diamond has been shown in a platinum setting, surrounded by 16 white pear-shaped and cushion-cut diamonds, suspended from a chain containing forty-five diamonds. In 2010, the gem will be returned to this setting.

Speaking about the diamond’s forthcoming appearance, museum director Cristian Samper said “This is a rare and exciting opportunity for people to see the Hope Diamond as it has never been seen before.”

The Hope Diamond was formed over a billion years ago. It was mined in India and is believed to have been part of the French crown jewels. The diamond supposedly carries a curse that brings bad luck to its owners. However, Smithsonian officials say the opposite.

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