Jewellery collection of Dhaka Nawab Family

We are happy to present here a few pieces of ornaments from the jewellery collection of the Dhaka Nawab Family. These items were illustrated in an album compiled by famous gemologist John Sinkankas.

Dust-band or Armlet

This ornament is composed of pure Indian Table-Diamonds. The centre stone is known as the “ Duria-y-anoor ” or “River of Light.” It is one of the famous Diamonds in the world, and its history is closely associated with that of the “ Koh-i-noor.” It is absolutely perfect in lustre and water; it was originally in the possession of the Shahs of Persia, and ultimately passed into the possession of Runjeet Singh. After the Punjab War, it came into the hands of the British Government, was purchased by the ancestors of the Dhaka Nawabs. The illustration is the exact size.

The clasp of the state sword belt

This is an illustration of the clasp of the state sword belt worn by the Nawab. The entire centre is composed of a single emerald of excellent shape and depth of colour. It is, for an emerald, wonderfully free from flaws, and is of considerable antiquity. The border is composed of a single row of brilliant diamonds.

Buckle

This buckle is worn in change with that shown in the preceding illustration. It is remarkable for the very fine lalrie which forms the centre. This stone is brilliant, free from flaws, and of the beautiful and delicate tint which is so much appreciated in the East. It is surrounded by a double row of fine old Indian diamonds.

Serpaitch

A serpaitch or head ornament , composed of rubies cut to form the petals of the flower, which radiate from the centre, unsupported by setting of any kind. The three centre stones are emeralds, and six emeralds divide the clusters. The ornament has been the property of the Nawabs of Dhaka for a great number of years and is an example of a class of jewellery now seldom seen.