Koh-i-Noor Diamond
- 109-carat, oval brilliant diamond
- Unknown specific origin or date, multiple theories
- Current Location: Tower of London, Property of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II
- Ownership disputed by: India
The actual source of the Koh-i-Noor diamond is unknown. There are multiple stories that account for its origin. The stone is rumored to be over 5000 years old and was possibly found in the Golconda mines in what is now modern-day southern India. It has been attributed to several rulers including the Raja of Malwa for multiple generations prior to the 12th century and Raja of Gwalior in the 13th century. The first written documentation of the diamond is in the ownership of Babur and the Mughal Dynasty in 1526. The gem was later mounted into the throne of the Mughal by Shah Jahan, who also oversaw the construction of the Taj Mahal.
After the decline of the Mughal Dynasty, the diamond changed hands between Afghan rulers until the British conquered Punjab in 1849. At this time, the British acquired the diamond and it was officially turned over to Queen Victoria in 1851. The diamond was used as a brooch by Queen Victoria and became part of the British Crown Jewels after her death. The diamond was set into Queen Elizabeth’s, consort of George VI, coronation crown in 1937, where it remains today.
Although there are currently no active lawsuits, The Indian Culture Ministry began making inquiries in 2010 to the British Government regarding the diamonds return to India. In regards to the topic, Prime Minister David Cameron is quoted as saying “If you say yes to one [request], you suddenly find the British Museum would be empty,” I’m afraid it’s going to have to stay put.”
After the decline of the Mughal Dynasty, the diamond changed hands between Afghan rulers until the British conquered Punjab in 1849. At this time, the British acquired the diamond and it was officially turned over to Queen Victoria in 1851. The diamond was used as a brooch by Queen Victoria and became part of the British Crown Jewels after her death. The diamond was set into Queen Elizabeth’s, consort of George VI, coronation crown in 1937, where it remains today.
Although there are currently no active lawsuits, The Indian Culture Ministry began making inquiries in 2010 to the British Government regarding the diamonds return to India. In regards to the topic, Prime Minister David Cameron is quoted as saying “If you say yes to one [request], you suddenly find the British Museum would be empty,” I’m afraid it’s going to have to stay put.”