The Diamond Fund (Almazny Fond) is a unique exhibition showcasing Russia's state treasures, including the crown jewels of the Russian Empire, rare diamonds, and precious metal nuggets. It offers an unparalleled glimpse into the opulence and craftsmanship of centuries past, making it a significant historical and cultural site within the Moscow Kremlin.
Visitors consistently describe the collection as "jaw-dropping" and "spectacular," highlighting the sheer size of the diamonds, the intricate designs of the imperial regalia like Catherine the Great's crown, and the impressive gold and platinum nuggets. Many find the historical context provided by audio guides or tours to be very informative, enriching the experience beyond just viewing beautiful objects. While the exhibition is relatively small, typically occupying two rooms, most agree that the quality and historical significance of the pieces make it well worth the visit. Common themes in positive reviews include the "mind-boggling" size of some gems and the "exquisite" artistry of the jewelry.
To make the most of your visit, plan to spend about 30–60 minutes inside the exhibition. It is highly recommended to rent the free audio guide (available in English), as it provides crucial historical details for each piece; you'll need to leave an ID or cash deposit. Photography is strictly prohibited, so be prepared to simply take in the sights. Many visitors suggest combining this visit with the Armory Chamber, as they are in the same building. Arriving early in the morning or for the first afternoon session is often recommended to avoid crowds, as entry is timed and capacity is limited.
The Diamond Fund is located within the Kremlin grounds, adjacent to the Armory Chamber. Access to the Kremlin itself is typically through the Borovitskaya Tower. To reach the Kremlin, you can use the Moscow Metro: the nearest stations are Biblioteka imeni Lenina (red line 1), Borovitskaya (grey line 9), Arbatskaya (blue line 3 or dark blue line 4), and Alexandrovsky Sad (light blue line 4). From these stations, it's a short walk to the Alexander Garden ticket offices. Be aware that security checks for entering the Kremlin can be extensive, so allow ample time (at least an hour) before your scheduled entry slot. While some reviews mention buying tickets inside the Armory, the most reliable advice is to purchase tickets at the Alexander Garden ticket offices (windows 4 & 5) or pre-book online if possible, as tickets are often time-specific and sell out quickly, especially in peak season. Foreign visitors sometimes report an easier time buying tickets on-site compared to locals.
A common complaint revolves around the difficulty of obtaining tickets and the somewhat confusing entry process. To mitigate this, aim to arrive at the Alexander Garden ticket offices well before opening hours, especially during high season. Some visitors also note that staff at the ticket booths may not speak English, so having your desired time slot and number of tickets written down can be helpful. Security is very tight, with airport-style checks and bag restrictions; large bags and backpacks must be left at a cloakroom, so travel light.
