Jewelry of Indian Maharajas

India has a long and illustrious history when it comes to jewelry, with some of the world’s most breathtaking and exquisite pieces coming from the Maharajas of India. These opulent and extravagant pieces are symbolic of the wealth, power, and status of the Indian royalty and are admired and sought after by collectors and jewelry enthusiasts all over the world.

 The Maharajas of India were known for their love of luxury and indulgence, and this extended to their jewelry collection. Their jewelry was not just a fashion statement, but it also served as a symbol of their power and wealth. The Indian Maharajas jewelry collection was a way for them to flaunt their status and influence, to showcase their achievements and achievements of their ancestors.

The Indian Maharajas jewelry collection is a testament to the incredible craftsmanship and skill of Indian jewelers. The pieces were crafted by some of the most skilled artisans and jewelers in India and abroad (Cartier, Van Cleef and Arpels, Boucheron), using only the finest and rarest gemstones and metals. Many of the pieces were made using ancient techniques that had been passed down through generations, and the resulting jewelry was both intricate and stunning.

Some of the most notable pieces from the Indian Maharajas jewelry collection include the Patiala Necklace, which is said to be the most expensive necklace ever made by Cartier. The necklace was commissioned by the Maharaja of Patiala in 1928 and took three years to complete. The necklace features five rows of diamond-encrusted platinum chains, as well as a pendant made up of seven diamonds, including the famous yellow octahedral De Beers diamond, which is one of the largest diamonds in the world.

Gifted by the Maharaja to one of his many wives, and assembled together as a grander multi-layer matching ruby necklace, the Patiala Ruby Choker and Necklaces were created from rich crimson red rubies, diamonds, and natural pearls that were passed down from previous generations.

Another famous piece from the collection is the Maharaja of Baroda’s diamond necklace assembled in 1865 by Khanderao Geakwad, to showcase the "Star of the South" diamond of 129 carat cushion-shaped, matching the drop shaped 78.53 carat "English Dresden".

The Nizam of Hyderabad’s jewelry collection is another famous example of Indian Maharajas’ exquisite taste in jewelry. The collection included a necklace made of 2,000 diamonds, a belt made of 450 diamonds, and a pair of earrings made of 55-carat diamonds. The collection was so vast and impressive that it took several days to auction off after the Nizam’s death.

Indian Maharajas’ jewelry collection not only includes extravagant pieces but also includes jewelry with cultural significance. For example, the Maharaja of Jaipur’s jewelry collection includes Aigrettes (turban ornaments), pieces that were created for traditional Indian weddings, such as the Nath, a large nose ring made of gold and encrusted with diamonds, and the Bajuband, a gold armlet studded with gemstones.

In conclusion, the Indian Maharajas’ jewelry collection is an awe-inspiring testament to the artistry and skill of the jewelry craftsmen. These pieces not only display the opulence and extravagance of the Indian royalty but also showcase the rich cultural heritage and history of India. They are a remarkable example of the beauty and ingenuity of Indian jewelry and continue to inspire jewelry enthusiasts and collectors around the world.

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