There are intriguing stories about diamonds and jewels owned by the first Nizam of Hyderabad, Mir Qamar-ud-din Khan (Asaf Jah I), which mention the loss or disappearance of some of his treasures.
The first Nizam was known for his vast wealth, which included an impressive collection of diamonds, pearls, and other precious jewels. His personal collection was renowned, and he accumulated significant treasure over his rule. The start of the Nizam dynasty in Hyderabad (India), also marked the taking over of the famous Golconda diamond mines, by Asaf Jah 1, the first Nizam.
While rumors of missing diamonds from the Nizam’s collection keep coming, it is easy to understand why such situations could occur. No clear records of these diamonds and their movement were maintained. Stories reveal how some of the Nizam’s jewels were lost, either through mismanagement, theft, or political turmoil during the time of the British colonial rule.
Of specific interest are the narratives related to the valuable turban ornaments, in the first Nizam’s collections. The Nizam’s treasure has sparked the imagination of historians, treasure hunters, and even filmmakers. Hushed conversations among diamond collectors, often mention a blue diamond and a pink diamond that were, at one time set in turban ornaments worn by the first Nizam Asaf Jah 1. The true fate of these jewels remains a subject of speculation and mystery.
Still on the topic of diamonds in the turban ornaments belonging to the Nizam Asaf Jah 1. There has been an attempt made to try and relate a blue diamond referred to as the Seraphim Blue Diamond, to a turban ornament worn by the first Nizam. The fact is that famous diamond auctions in recent times, have no mention of the so called, Seraphim Blue Diamond. High interest levels in historic diamonds from the Golconda mines, can be generated only when the diamond is traded at a high profile auction.
The story of jewels and diamonds missing from the Nizam collection, does not end with the missing diamond studded turban ornaments. Some collectors expect, at least a few treasures from the Nizam collection to debut at auctions in the near future. Expect these to come from private collections in the US or Europe.
