There is a long rich background behind the beautiful, large, blue ...

[bobthebuilder]

There is a long rich background behind the beautiful, large, blue diamond which is in
  the Smithsonian's collection. Its luster and hue is an enigma. It is referred to as the Hope
  Diamond, and has had many owners in the past. It had been owned at one time by Louis IVX
  and was stolen during the French revolution. It actually had been used to pay off a gambling
  debt and auctioned for a charity. Many have spoken of its curse. According to legend, the
  diamond had originally been one of two eyes of an Idol in India. The eye that was stolen is
  said to have the curse of death to all who own or touch it. Because of the misfortune that
  befell some of the previous owners of the diamond, it is a relief to many; that the Hope
  Diamond is displayed for all behind a protective glass case.
 
  a) The Hope Diamond is cursed.
  b) The Hope Diamond is a large and rich diamond with a large and rich history.
  c) The Hope Diamond was owned by Louis IVX and given to his queen.
  d) The Hope Diamond was stolen from an Idol in India.

Question 2

Add missing semicolons, colons, and dashes to the following sentences. Be sure to have a
  reason for every mark you add. Any commas already within the sentences are necessary and
  should not be changed. Some sentences are correct.
  The zoo's reptile house was fascinating I had never seen a python up close before.
 
  What will be an ideal response?

[TINA]

Answer to Question 1

b)

Answer to Question 2

The zoo's reptile house was fascinating; I had never seen a python up close before.

[bobthebuilder]

TYSM

[sailorcrescent]

Thanks for the timely response, appreciate it