In the Imperial Treasury in Vienna today lies a very large and famous diamond that once belonged to the beloved Empress, Maria Teresa, It is known as the Austrian Yellow Diamond. Few people know how near to the hearts of the Austrian people the yellow diamond is, or the part it played in the life of Maria Teresa. 

Looking back to the year 1870, Maria Teresa lies near death in the royal chamber. She has sent away her family who were in attendance at her bedside, and is now speaking alone with Joseph, her eldest son and heir to the throne.