When it comes to attractions, London simply leaves Indians spoiled for choices. There are many things to do and see in London. But, if citizens want to have a taste of something unique, they do visit the Tower of London where the precious Kohinoor diamond is kept. Also referred to as the ‘mountain of light’, this precious gem adorns crown of the British Queens.
Origins of Kohinoor Diamond
There are countless legends surrounding this treasured stone. Once counted among the biggest diamonds in the world, Koh-i-Noor’s origin is still shrouded in mystery. Most stories, though, hint at its association with violence and curse. Some believe that this regal diamond was discovered in Kollur Mines located in Andhra Pradesh, India. The findings trace its roots to 16th century. If you go by Indian mythology, the diamond is said to have appeared about thousands of years ago. However, as per its creation is concerned, opinions still stand divided. Some opine that gods made this stone; while others believe it was discovered in the Godavari River.
History of Kohinoor Diamond
Going by historical records, it can be said Kohinoor belonged to the Mughal Emperors in India. The diamond had several owners, before it finally came into the possession of the British East India Company. And once Britishers own the precious stone, they kept it under their possession as it belongs to them. One of the most precious items plundered from India by the British, Kohinoor diamond continues to be a part of constant debate and negotiations so that it finally returns to its homeland.
Some views suggest that the diamond cutters in India were keen on maintaining its size than on any other elements. Due to this, it could not attract the folks as well as the Crown when it was transported to England. Prince Albert gave an order to re-cut and to reshape it into a 105 carat brilliant piece. After transformation, the diamond’s size reduced by 40%, but its beauty was enhanced by manifolds. Although many rebuts against the claim of ownership of Mughals on the diamond.
Among the many precious stones that adorned the throne were two particularly enormous gems that would, in time, become the most valued of all: the Timur Ruby—more highly valued by the Mughals because they preferred colored stones—and the Koh-i-Noor diamond. The diamond was lodged at the very top of the throne, in the head of a glistening gemstone peacock.
For a century after the creation of the Peacock Throne, the Mughal Empire retained its supremacy in India and beyond. It was the wealthiest state in Asia; Delhi, the capital city, was home to 2 million people, more than London and Paris combined. But that prosperity attracted the attention of other rulers in Central Asia, including Persian ruler Nader Shah.
When Nader invaded Delhi in 1739, the ensuing carnage cost tens of thousands of lives and the depletion of the treasury. Nader left the city accompanied by so much gold and so many gems that the looted treasure required 700 elephants, 4,000 camels and 12,000 horses to pull it (and you thought all that fanfare in Aladdin was Disney-ized embellishment). Nader took the Peacock Throne as part of his treasure, but removed the Timur Ruby and the Koh-i-Noor diamond to wear on an armband.
After decades of fighting, the diamond returned to India and came into the hands of Sikh ruler Ranjit Singh in 1813, whose particular affection for the gem ultimately sealed its aura of prestige and power.
Afterwards, many proxy wars were engineered when Britishers came to know of Ranjit Singh’s death. And possessed the stone however.
the claim of having the diamond back has been refuted many times by contending that the records have gone vanished where the purchase was made of diamond. although, many argued on papers about placing the theft subject to where it belongs.
Since the matter is of the most precious stone in time immemorial. the little that is expected is of origin of the diamond. the history should be known to everyone.
Glimpses of Kohinoor Diamond
Presently, the much talked about rose-tinted gem is housed in the Tower of London along with other royal objects. It is taken out only on rare occasions for public viewing.
