Skip to content

Article: Intro to Golconda Diamonds

Intro to Golconda Diamonds-Jogani

Intro to Golconda Diamonds

The Last Golconda

Often referred to as “the beginning of diamonds”, Golconda diamonds come from a small group of mines that surround the Krishna River in the Golconda region of India. For nearly two millennia, these mines were the only source of diamonds on Earth, and their gems were so highly cultivated that by 1725, the last diamond was pulled from the mines - and a true Golconda was never produced again. 

Archduke Joseph Golconda Diamond

A Golconda diamond known as the Archduke Joseph diamond, valued at over $20 million (photo source: Financial Times)

Why Golconda?

Throughout history, Golconda diamonds have been compared to water for their crystal clear, colorless quality. Stones from this region are designated type IIa, meaning they are devoid of nitrogen -- a quality that gives diamonds a slightly yellow tone. It’s estimated that only 1-2% of the world’s diamonds are type IIa, and not all type IIa diamonds are Golcondas. A true Golconda diamond can be distinguished by a flatter shape (created by the region’s flatter crystal formations), a true old cut, and a signature “super-D” effect. Place a Golconda next to a modern D color stone and you’ll see what we mean when we say that the Golconda shines whiter than white. 

 

The Golconda diamond’s incredible allure lies in its absolute embodiment of a diamond’s most irresistible qualities: a Golconda one is rare and withstands the test of time. It sparkles and shines with a brilliant clarity that makes it nearly impossible to take our eyes from it. For those who treasure diamonds, Golconda is the ultimate -- and this has remained true all around the world for generations.

The Power of a Diamond

Hope Diamond Golconda Diamond

The Hope Diamond, one of the most famous diamonds in the world, now sits at the Smithsonian in Washington, D.C. (photo source: The Adventurine)

Some of the most famous diamonds in the world are Golcondas: the Hope Diamond, the Koh-i-Noor, and the Regent -- all of these diamonds are so captivating that they’ve inspired legends, incited battles, and even caused the rise and fall of empires. A Golconda is more than a pinnacle example of the earth’s natural beauty -- it is a piece of history. 

Read more

Old Mine Cuts-Jogani

Old Mine Cuts

If you want to hunt for treasure, you have to know what you’re looking for! This is going to be the first in a series about the diamond cuts I find the most intriguing, the most beautiful, and the ...

Read more
Cartier Art Deco Brooch

Deco Influence

Art Deco pieces from the Jogani collection If you’re familiar with my work and inventory, you’ll know I love Art Deco pieces. My earliest original designs draw an abundance of inspiration from t...

Read more