Monday, November 17, 2008

Museum pieces: Darya-ye Noor


The Darya-I-Nur Diamond is one of the world's largest rare diamonds. It weighs about 182 carats (36.4 g). Its exact weight is unknown because its been mounted in its brooch setting for over 130 years. It is one of the most rare diamonds due to its pale pink color, in addition to its size. Its Persian name 'Darya-I-Nur' translates into English as the 'Sea of Light'

The Darya-ye Noor presently forms part of the Iranian Crown Jewels and is on display at the Central Bank of Iran in Tehran. In 1739, Nader Shah of Persia invaded India and sacked Delhi; the plunder he garnered from the Mughal treasury included the Darya-i-noor, in addition to the Kohinoor and the Peacock throne. All of these treasures were carried to Persia by Nader Shah and the Darya-i-noor has remained there ever since.

Wikipedia - Darya-ye Noor

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