Diamond Studded Turban Ornaments Owned By The Nizams?
The Nizam dynasty in Hyderabad (India) controlled the highly resourceful Golconda diamond mines. In the 17th and 18th centuries, these mines were the source of legendary diamonds such as the Koh-i-Noor, Hope Diamond, and Regent Diamond.
Diamonds were not seen often in royal turban ornaments during those times. Turban ornaments were generally designed and crafted to include a precious gemstone like ruby, sapphire or emerald. Diamond collectors seem to believe that Mir Qamar-ud-din Khan, the first Nizam of Hyderabad did own at least few turban ornaments, with valuable diamonds adorning the center.
Mention is at times made to a diamond referred to as the Seraphim Blue Diamond, apparently a fancy blue diamond from the Golconda mines. The First Nizam is believed to have this piece, set in one of his turban ornaments. There is also talk about another pink diamond apparently from the Golconda mines that, the same Nizam had set in another turban ornament.
The blue diamond and the pink diamond, have never turned up at any high profile auction. This is quite normal when it comes to jewels owned by the Nizams, transactions were often made without any records and diamonds were even recut to suit the preferences of the Nizam family. While fine blue diamonds did originate in the Golconda mines, pink diamonds from the same mines are very rare.
It is likely that these diamonds (if they still exist) are currently, in some private collection. At this point there is no indication whether, the blue and pink diamonds are still part of those turban ornaments. Diamond collectors are aware that the Seraphim Blue Diamond and the pink diamond, could have been recut.
Seasoned diamond collectors and reputed auction houses like Sotheby’s and Christie’s will, show true excitement if and when these elusive diamonds, are sent to auction. Authentication certificates will give peace of mind to the collectors as, the diamonds could command super high bids.
For now the Seraphim Blue Diamond and the pink diamond, which were believed to be part of the Nizam collection remain shrouded in mystery.
