The Koh-i-Noor is a large diamond that has a long and storied history. The name Koh-i-Noor means "Mountain of Light" in Persian, and the diamond has been regarded as one of the most valuable and famous gems in the world.
The Koh-i-Noor is believed to have originated in the Golconda region of India, and it has been in the possession of many rulers over the centuries. It was first mentioned in the historical record in the 14th century, when it was owned by the Kakatiya dynasty of South India.
In the 16th century, the Koh-i-Noor was acquired by the Mughal Empire, and it became part of the Mughal treasury. It was worn by several Mughal emperors, including Shah Jahan, who built the Taj Mahal.
In 1739, the Koh-i-Noor was seized by Persian ruler Nadir Shah during his invasion of India. It was later acquired by Afghan ruler Ahmad Shah Durrani, who gave it to his grandson. In the early 19th century, the diamond was seized by British forces during their conquest of India and presented to Queen Victoria in 1850.
Today, the Koh-i-Noor is part of the British Crown Jewels and is kept in the Tower of London. The diamond is believed to weigh around 105 carats, though its exact weight is not known for certain. The Koh-i-Noor remains a symbol of India's cultural heritage, and its ownership has been a subject of controversy and diplomatic tension between India and the UK in recent years.
The diamond was featured on the Quen Mary Crown, being used at the coronation of Queen Camilla, but the crown has been altered to include the Cullinan III, IV and V diamonds – from Elizabeth II’s personal jewellery collection.
