Diamond Certification Beneficial?

A number of reports have in recent times, talked about the Seraphim Blue Diamond. The general narrative is that the blue Golconda diamond, was part of a luxuriant turban ornament worn by Asaf Jah 1, the first Nizam of Hyderabad. Dating back to around 1724, neither the diamond turban ornament nor the diamond itself, has been seen for a couple of centuries.

asaf jah 1 and the seraphim blue diamond

SERAPHIM BLUE DIAMOND TRACED?

Recent reports claim that, the Seraphim Blue Diamond has been traced to a high value collection in Russia. A widely believed theory is that, the diamond was handed over to the French by the second Nizam of Hyderabad – Asaf Jah 2. The Seraphim Blue Diamond was used as a mode of payment, the French in return agreed to provide military protection to the Nizam and the region controlled by him.

It is important to understand that French royalty, had access to the best diamond and gemstone experts – these professionals would have closely inspected the blue diamond before, accepting it as a mode of payment. There is a high probability that, the French sold the Seraphim Blue Diamond, to a buyer who was ready to pay the ‘right’ price.

 

GOLCONDA DIAMOND MINES

The Golconda diamond mines were at one time, the most resourceful diamond mines in the world. They were well known for their high quality diamonds. While much of the output from the Golconda mines consisted white (colorless) diamonds, a small fraction consisted of rare and highly prized fancy color diamonds. Popular diamonds from the Golconda mines include The Koh-i-Noor diamond, The Hope Diamond, The Seraphim Blue Diamond, The Regent Diamond and the The Daria-i-Noor diamond. Of these diamonds, the Seraphim Blue Diamond has never been a part of any major auction, finer details and certifications have therefore never been inspected.

Few diamond experts claim to have had a chance to see the Seraphim Blue Diamond. In their opinion the diamond has its origin in the Golconda diamond mines. While it is true that, a well trained eye can identify a Golconda diamond – the need for an official certification from a reputed diamond testing laboratory, cannot be discounted. There are multiple reasons for this.

 

GOLCONDA DIAMONDS PREFERRED

Diamonds from the Golconda diamond mines, carry a premium price tag. In the case of the Seraphim Blue Diamond, a Golconda origin, the claimed connection to the Nizams and the fine color and clarity of the diamond – point to a rare and highly sought after diamond.

Auction houses, insurance companies, banks and other financial institutions and even, diamond connoisseurs would prefer to have complete documentation, of the assets that they deal in. Certifications of the physical features of the diamond, the story behind the diamond and the origin of the piece – would have a positive impact on price.