Whispers of a pink Golconda diamond coming up for auction, have not picked pace. The storyline that the pink diamond was once, a part of the Nizam’s collection, has not gained much interest from seasoned diamond experts. The possibility of a pink diamond, originating from the famed Golconda diamonds is not being contested. However that would make the diamond, extremely rare and highly desirable.
NIZAMS DIAMOND TURBAN ORNAMENTS
The reign of the Nizams over the Deccan region including Hyderabad and the Golconda area, started in 1724 and ended in 1948. Asaf Jah I designated himself as the first Nizam of Hyderabad in 1724, this when he stepped away from the Moguls and took over the administration of Hyderabad. Asaf Jah VII was the last (seventh) Nizam. The Indian government discontinued his reign and made Hyderabad, a part of India.
The Nizams went on to become one of the most wealthy and powerful dynasties during their time. Property, precious gemstones and stunning diamonds from the Golconda mines, added tremendous value to the Nizam’s treasury. Turban ornaments were a symbol of wealth, status and royalty – a number of opulent turban ornaments encrusted with diamond and precious gems, formed part of the Nizam’s wealth.
A number of reports have emerged over the years, talking about two exclusive turban ornaments worn by Asaf Jah 1, the first Nizam of Hyderabad. While most turban ornaments from the Nizam collection included diamonds, generally as accent stones – two diamond turban ornaments have been repeatedly mentioned. One of these turban ornaments is believed to be set with a high quality Golconda blue diamond in the center. The second turban ornament was adorned with a rare pink diamond in the center. The diamond it is believed, also originated from the Golconda diamond mines.
Neither of these diamond turban ornaments nor the fancy (blue and pink) color diamonds, have ever come up for auction – they have remained elusive for centuries. Relating them to the first Nizam of Hyderabad, would take us back to 1724 when Asaf Jah 1 started the reign of the Nizams. Stories with a similar narrative from different sources, has drawn the attention of diamond experts. These stories relate to the Seraphim Blue Diamond, a fancy blue diamond which is believed to have once adorned, a luxuriant turban ornament worn by Asaf Jah I.
Not much has been heard about the pink diamond turban ornament, worn by the first Nizam of Hyderabad. Following the narrative provided for the Seraphim Blue Diamond, it is not likely that both these diamond turban ornaments, are currently part of the same collection. It is widely agreed that, the turban ornament with the blue Golconda diamond, ceased to exist. The French it is believed offered military support to the second Nizam (Asaf Jah II), the Seraphim Blue Diamond was paid (in part or full) for that support. Few diamond collectors who claim to have seen the Seraphim Blue Diamond in a Russian collection – observed that the blue diamond, is a loose diamond separated from the original diamond turban ornament.
Considering the circumstances under which, the Nizam’s turban ornament with the blue diamond was dismantled – it seems unlikely that the first Nizam’s pink diamond turban ornament, took the same route. Given the immense wealth amassed by the Nizams, the story of the pink diamond turban ornament is believable. However, the condition or location, of the turban ornament remains a mystery. Rumors and stories in the future might shed more light on the pink diamond or the turban ornament.
GOLCONDA PINK DIAMONDS
Writing off the Nizam’s turban ornament with the Golconda pink diamond, as a mere fairytale – might not be logical. Some diamond enthusiasts, seem to believe that the historic Golconda diamond mines, never delivered pink diamonds.
While it is true that most of the Golconda diamonds were white (colorless), a tiny portion of these diamonds were (naturally) contaminated with other minerals during their formation. This phenomenon delivered a few blue diamonds and some (extremely rare) pink diamonds.
Pink diamonds like The Daria-i-Noor which is a pale pink diamond, believed to be from Golconda, now part of the Iranian crown jewels and The Noor-ul-Ain also thought to be of Golconda-origin, a vivid pink centerpiece in a Persian tiara – are some examples of well known pink diamonds, originating from the Golconda mines.
While both blue and pink diamonds are extremely rare, pink Golconda diamonds are many times rarer than blue diamonds from the region. Famed blue Golconda diamonds would include the Hope Diamond, the Idol’s Eye Diamond, The Seraphim Blue Diamond and the Blue Dresen Diamond.
HIGH PROFILE AUCTIONS
Talking about the possibility of the Nizam’s pink diamond turban ornament coming up for auction – the fact is that, jewelry and diamonds with prominent provenance details, make big headlines when they come up for auction.
Sellers feel comfortable working with reputed auction houses like Sotheby’s and Christie’s as, they attract high dollar bidders with exorbitantly high budgets. These auction houses also seem to be power houses, when it comes to publicity.
The bottom line is that, there is no indication that the present owner of the Seraphim Blue Diamond, would put the piece up for an auction any time soon. There are also no rumors or even whispers to indicate that, the pink diamond turban ornament would be seen at an auction anytime soon.
NOTES
When considering the purchase of exorbitantly priced historic assets such as diamonds and jewelry, it is essential to possess both in-depth knowledge and hands-on experience. Equally important is staying informed about current market trends, as these can significantly influence value, demand, and investment potential.