INDIAN
Spinel
1608-09RCIN 11526
Spinels are gemmologically similar to rubies but have a greater lustre, durability and hardness. The Mughal emperors considered them superior to all other precious stones. This spinel is inscribed in Persian with the names of its previous owners: the emperors Jahangir (r. 1605–27), Shah-Jahan (r. 1628–58) and Alamgir (r. 1658–1707), who may have worn it as a turban ornament.
In the late eighteenth century the jewel came into the possession of the Rajas of Nabha. Raja Sir Hira Singh of Nabha (1843–1911) presented it as a coronation gift to King Edward VII in 1901.
In the late eighteenth century the jewel came into the possession of the Rajas of Nabha. Raja Sir Hira Singh of Nabha (1843–1911) presented it as a coronation gift to King Edward VII in 1901.