The Nizam's Diamond Turban Ornament

With numerous reports reporting a very similar narrative about the historic Seraphim Blue Diamond, the general belief is that it does exist but, official documentations need to be revealed. A few diamond experts have taken this topic, to a new level. Initial rumors claimed that the Seraphim Blue Diamond which originated in the famous Golconda mines, worn in a valuable turban ornament by Asaf Jah 1 the first Nizam of Hyderabad. Some diamond traders claim to have had a chance to see the, Golconda blue diamond and no mention of the turban ornament is being made.

ASAF JAH 1 AND THE DIAMOND

Reports explain that the Seraphim Blue Diamond entered the Nizam’s treasury during the reign of the first Nizam, this was around 1724. The Nizam who was Asaf Jah 1 set the premium blue color Golconda diamond, in an intricately crafted turban ornament. While most royal turban ornaments during that time, had a precious gem like ruby, sapphire, spinel or emerald in the center – the Nizam had two high value turban ornaments with, fancy color diamonds in the center. The Seraphim Blue Diamond is believed to be set in one of those turban ornaments. A light pink diamond also from the Golconda diamond mines, was set in the other turban ornament. Asaf Jah 1 treasured these two diamond turban ornaments, he would wear them only on special occasions. Nothing has been heard about the pink diamond or, the Nizam’s turban ornament with the pink diamond.

In the normal course high budget investors would agree that, the Seraphim Blue Diamond in its original setting – the Nizam’s turban ornament, would have a big advantage in any high profile auction. There is no room for debating that opinion. With whispers in private circles claiming that, the Seraphim Blue Diamond has been seen, as a loose diamond with no gold mounting, curiosity seems to be seeping into the story behind the (believed) legendary blue Golconda diamond.

TECHNICAL RISK

Was the idea to take the Seraphim Blue Diamond out of royal turban ornament, a risky proposition? Technically speaking the risk if any was very low. Jewelry in those days would have been crafted in 22k gold, a rather soft gold alloy. A skilled artisan with basic tools, could just tear the metal around the center diamond.

The possibility of the blue diamond getting damaged in the process, was almost impossible. Diamond is the hardest known natural substance, to be used in making jewelry. The task of taking the Seraphim Blue Diamond out of the gold turban ornament, would not be a challenging one.

THE LOOSE DIAMOND

With rumors that a few diamond traders, had a look at the Seraphim Blue Diamond as a loose diamond – it seems quite clear that the diamond was taken out of the original turban ornament. Information regarding the need to separate the blue diamond from the gold setting of the ornament, has been seen on multiple reports published from various sources.

The common narrative is the Asaf Jah 2 who was the second Nizam of Hyderabad, handed over the Seraphim Blue Diamond to the French. Had that been a gift or a goodwill gesture, it is very likely that the Nizam would have given, the entire jewel (the turban ornament worn by Asaf Jah 1) to the French. The explanation is that, Asaf Jah 2 used the fine Golconda blue diamond as a mode of payment – in return for military support from the French.

Important to understand that the Seraphim Blue Diamond was in the Nizam’s treasury for just a few decades. The turban ornament itself, would have not had much historical significance at that time. The French royals had the services of diamond and gemstone experts at that time, the focus was surely more, on the intrinsic value of the blue diamond with a Golconda origin. A proper inspection of the diamond to determine its value, would require the inspection of the loose diamond. This should explain the ‘need’ to take off the diamond from the turban ornament.

VALUING HISTORIC DIAMONDS

The traditional 4Cs alone are insufficient to determine the value of diamonds with historic provenance and royal connections. When a diamond carries a notable lineage or has been owned by royalty, its prestige and narrative significantly elevate its worth. In high-profile auctions, just a few seasoned and passionate bidders can drive the per-carat price of such a historic gem to extraordinary levels.

As rumors keep indicating that the Seraphim Blue Diamond which was once, worn in a turban ornament by Asaf Jah 1 (approximately 1724), has been traced to a European collection gain momentum – all that experts and reputed auction houses would be looking for, is official certifications and an opportunity, to inspect the actual diamond.

NOTES

Customjewels has no commercial interest in the Seraphim Blue Diamond, the content compiled here is presented purely for information purposes. Investing in historic diamonds requires specialized expertise. It involves not only in-depth knowledge of diamonds, but also a strong understanding of high-value historic assets. Thorough evaluation and careful validation of all available information—especially provenance and authenticity—are of paramount importance. Even minor gaps or unverified claims can significantly impact both the value and future marketability of the diamond.