The Nassak Diamond, a stunning 43.38-carat bule gem with a remarkable journey through history. The diamond also known as ‘Eye’ of Lord Shiva, originated from the Kollur Mines in Golconda, India. Its story is linked to the rich culture and politics of India and Britain.
Let’s explore the history, ownership and current status of this famous diamond.
Where Did the Nassak Diamond Come From?
The Nassak Diamond was first discovered in India during the 15th century. It originated from the well-known Golconda Kollur Mines in Andhra Pradesh and is one of the largest diamonds ever found.
Originally, it was a huge 89-carat diamond and was cut to maximize its size, much like the famous Koh-I-Noor diamond. The Nassak was often referred to as the ‘Eye of Lord Shiva’. The diamond got its name from Nasik, the city where it was kept.
The Golconda mines are very significant because they were the top source of diamonds in the world until South African mines were found in the late 1800s. In 1687, when the Mughal Empire took over Golconda, they captured the Nassak Diamond. Later, during Maratha raids, this diamond was seize as a war trophy and eventually given to the Peshwas.
What Was the Nassak Diamond’s Role in the Trimbakeshwar Temple?
The Nassak diamond was once adorned in the golden crown of Lord Shiva at the Trimbakeshwar Temple, situated 28 kilometers from Nashik in Maharashtra. This temple is one of the twelve Jyotirlinga shrines, which are among the most sacred sites dedicated to Lord Shiva. The diamond was said to be the part of the temple’s treasure, enhancing its religious and cultural significance.
Historical records indicate that Peshwa Nana Saheb, a Maratha ruler, might have added the diamond to the temple’s crown in the late 18th century. However, details about this contribution remained unclear because there are no supporting historical documents.
How Did the Nassak Diamond End Up with the British?
The fate of the Nassak Diamond took a dramatic turn during the Third Anglo-Maratha War, which commenced in 1817. According to sources, it was Peshwa Bajirao II, not Nana Saheb who ordered the removal of the diamond from the temple’s crown and brought it to Pune. Following the Maratha defeat in the war, Bajirao II escaped with his treasures including the Nassak Diamond.
In 1818, Bajirao II surrendered to British forces led by Colonel J. Briggs who handed the diamond to the Marquess of Hastings, the British Governor General of India. The diamond was then sent to London, where it was briefly put up for sale as a part of the war treasures.
What Happened to the Nassak Diamond After It Reached London?
When the Nassak Diamond arrived in London. It didn’t attract much attention at first. In 1837, the Duke of Westminster, a very wealthy British noble, bought it and placed into the hilt of his sword. Even after the jewelers Rundell and Bridge recut it to 78.62 carats, the diamond was still criticized for its unappealing shape and dull look.
The diamond was sold multiple times throughout the years. In 1927, New York jeweller George Mauboussin acquired it, which caught a lot of attention and led to legal disputes due to its unique import status. It was also stollen twice in 1929 and 1930 but was luckily found again.
Who Owns the Nassak Diamond Today?
The Nassak Diamond was recut to its current size of 43.38 carats after being in New York and showcased at the 1933 World’s Fair in Chicago. It is now owned by the Robert Mouawad Private Museum, a well-known gem collector museum from Lebanon. The diamond’s history with different owners shows its lasting charm and worth.
What to see when visiting the Trimbakeshwar Temple?
Although the Nassak Diamond is no longer part of the Trimbakeshwar Temple’s crown, the crown is still a valuable artifact that visitors can see every Monday. The missing diamond serves as a reminder of its once-glorious past and the ongoing story of this legendary gem.
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