Mukesh Ambani and Nita Ambani which is India's wealthiest couple, have a penchant for extraordinary jewels. One of the most prized pieces in Nita Ambani's collection is a historic diamond from the fabled Golconda mines in India. According to auction house Christie’s, this diamond, valued at an astounding USD 6.5 million, has a storied past, once being part of the Mughal Empire’s treasury before Nita Ambani acquired it through a Christie’s auction in 2019.
The Golconda mines, located in southern India, are renowned for producing some of the world's most exceptional diamonds. These gems are celebrated for their unique luminosity, transparency, and purity, qualities that have made them highly coveted throughout history. Christie’s notes that Golconda diamonds are characterized by a distinctive whiteness often described as soft, limpid, or watery. This unique trait allows light to pass through the diamond unimpeded, creating a soft yet brilliant glow.
Connoisseurs particularly prize Golconda diamonds with their original cuts, as these older pear-shaped stones enhance their clear transparency. The history of diamond mining in India is ancient, believed to have started around 400 BC. For nearly two centuries, India maintained a near-monopoly on diamonds until new discoveries in Brazil in the 1720s, which coincided with the depletion of Indian mines.
The Golconda region became legendary for its exceptional diamonds, most of which originated from alluvial deposits scattered across a vast area. Although production in the Golconda mines ceased centuries ago, the legacy of these diamonds endures, underscoring India's historical significance as the cradle of diamond excellence.
Nita Ambani's diamond ring from the Golconda mines has been seen on several significant occasions. She wore it during the hastakshar ceremony of her son Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant and at the inauguration of the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre (NMACC). This ring holds special significance, becoming a cherished heirloom in the Ambani family's legacy.
The Ambani-Merchant wedding was a grand event that drew global attention, featuring a guest list filled with Bollywood stars, international celebrities, and global business leaders. The lavish decorations, exquisite cuisine, and meticulous planning created an unforgettable experience. Amidst this grandeur, Nita Ambani's style, particularly her iconic diamond ring, stood out, captivating the interest of fashion enthusiasts and jewellery lovers alike.
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