The Story Of Koh-i-Noor: The Diamond That Travelled Across Empires

The diamond that journeyed through centuries, power and conquest.

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Mined in India’s Golconda region, the Koh-i-Noor’s history dates back to the 13th century. It was once part of the Kakatiya dynasty’s royal treasure.

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The gem changed hands from the Delhi Sultanate to the Mughals, then the Persians, and finally the Afghans, each ruler seeing it as a symbol of divine power.

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Emperor Babur mentioned it in his memoirs. Later, Shah Jahan set it into his Peacock Throne, calling it a jewel worthy of kings and empires.

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In 1739, Persian ruler Nadir Shah invaded Delhi and seized the diamond. He exclaimed, “Koh-i-Noor!” meaning Mountain of Light and the name stuck forever.

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After the fall of the Sikh Empire, the British annexed Punjab in 1849. The diamond was taken from Maharaja Duleep Singh, a 10-year-old king, and shipped to Queen Victoria.

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The Koh-i-Noor now sits in the British Crown Jewels in the Tower of London. India, Pakistan, Iran and Afghanistan have all claimed ownership, sparking decades of debate.

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Beyond its glitter, the Koh-i-Noor tells a tale of conquest, colonisation, and power. It remains one of history’s most fascinating and contested treasures.

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