Where is the Treasury of National Jewels? Hidden within the heart of Iran lies a treasure trove unlike any other – the Treasury of National Jewels. Imagine stepping into a realm where history, opulence, and cultural heritage intertwine to create a mesmerizing tapestry of beauty and significance. Treasury of National Jewels nestled within the confines of the Central Bank of Iran in Tehran, is more than just a collection of precious gems; it is a testament to centuries of craftsmanship, tradition, and the enduring legacy of a nation.
As you embark on this journey through the annals of time, prepare to be transported to an era of splendor and magnificence. Each jewel housed within the Treasury of National Jewels is a masterpiece in its own right, meticulously crafted and imbued with stories that transcend generations. From dazzling diamonds to resplendent rubies, every gem holds within it a piece of Iran’s rich cultural mosaic, reflecting the grandeur of bygone eras and the artistic prowess of its creators.
But the allure of the Treasury of National Jewels extends far beyond its dazzling displays. It serves as a custodian of Iran’s national identity, safeguarding the country’s heritage against the ravages of time and upheaval. Through its gleaming showcases and intricately designed vaults, the Treasury of National Jewels offers a glimpse into the soul of a nation, inviting visitors to unravel the mysteries of its past and marvel at the treasures that lie within.
Join us as we delve deeper into the secrets of the Treasury of National Jewels in Iran, uncovering the stories behind its most prized possessions and exploring the cultural significance of each exquisite artifact. From the legendary Peacock Throne to the legendary Darya-i-Noor diamond, there is no shortage of wonders waiting to be discovered. So, come along on this captivating journey and immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of Iran’s most precious gems.
Facts about Treasury of National Jewels
- The Treasury of National Jewels houses a vast collection of precious artifacts, including crowns, tiaras, belts, and more.
- Among its most renowned pieces are the Naderi Crown, Pahlavi Crown, and Farah Pahlavi Crown.
- The Naderi Crown features a large emerald surrounded by diamonds, worn only by Farah Pahlavi.
- Commissioned by Reza Shah, the Pahlavi Crown boasts exquisite diamonds, emeralds, sapphires, and pearls.
- The Farah Pahlavi Crown, adorned with green emeralds, rubies, and diamonds, weighs around two kilograms.
- Visitors can marvel at the intricate craftsmanship of the jewels, showcasing Iran’s rich cultural heritage.
- The collection includes belts woven with pure gold threads, such as the one adorned with a 176-carat oval-shaped emerald.
- Each artifact tells a unique story, from the coronation ceremonies of Iranian royalty to the intricate designs influenced by historical traditions.
- The Treasury’s exhibits offer insights into the opulence and grandeur of Iran’s royal dynasties.
- The gems and jewels used in the artifacts are carefully selected and arranged to create stunning displays of elegance and beauty.
History of the National Jewels Museum
The journey of the Treasury of National Jewels is like a thrilling adventure through time. Back in 1937, these precious gems found their safe haven in the Central Bank of Iran, where they’ve been kept ever since, shielded from the storms of history.
Legend has it that during the Safavid dynasty, the Shahs went on a treasure hunt, collecting gems from distant lands like India, France, Britain, and the Ottoman Empire. Their efforts resulted in a dazzling array of jewels, forming the backbone of what we now know as the Treasury of National Jewels.
But trouble brewed when invaders plundered the Treasury of National Jewels. Nader Shah, a legendary warrior, waged wars to reclaim the stolen treasures. His victories not only brought back the jewels but also filled the coffers with riches from India.
In a noble gesture, Nader Shah shared a significant portion of the recovered treasure with the holy shrine of Imam Reza, along with rulers, nobles, and soldiers.
However, not all tales have a happy ending. The Koh-i-Noor diamond, among the most precious gems, was lost forever during the plunder by Ahmad Shah Durrani. Eventually, it found its way into the hands of Queen Victoria as a gift.
Despite the tumultuous past, the Qajar and Pahlavi dynasties brought moments of tranquility for the national treasures. They lavishly adorned them with exquisite gemstones, adding to their allure.
In recent times, the Treasury of National Jewels received two new additions: a turquoise from Neyshabur’s mines and a pearl from the Persian Gulf, enriching the legacy of Iran’s national jewels.
What Can Be Visited in the Treasury of National Jewels?
When you step into the Treasury of National Jewels you’re not just entering a place of wealth; you’re diving into Iran’s rich history and cultural heritage. It’s like a time machine, showing you the beauty and craftsmanship of bygone eras.
Imagine walking through the museum’s halls and seeing gems that sparkle like stars in the night sky. These jewels aren’t just valuable; they hold stories of kings and queens, wars and conquests, and the intricate skills of artisans long gone. Each gem is a window into Iran’s past, reflecting its glory and traditions.
But it’s not just about shiny rocks. The treasures in the museum are organized into 37 displays, each telling its own story. You’ll see crowns fit for royalty, necklaces that would make any fashionista swoon, and ornaments that have graced the halls of palaces. There are vases and candlesticks, symbols of elegance and refinement, alongside drinking vessels and food covers, reminders of lavish feasts and banquets.
And let’s not forget the weapons – belts, swords, and daggers – each with its own tale of valor and bravery. Shields stand tall, silent guardians of a nation’s honor, while other artifacts whisper secrets of times long past.
In short, the National Jewels Museum is a treasure trove of wonders, inviting you to explore Iran’s past and marvel at the beauty it holds. So come, take a journey through history, and discover the stories behind each glittering gem.
Prominent Works of the National Jewels Museum
Takht-e Tavoos- The Peacock Throne
One of the most captivating treasures you’ll encounter at the Treasury of National Jewels is the Peacock Throne, also known as the Sun Throne, ordered by Fath-Ali Shah Qajar. This stunning wooden throne, adorned with precious stones, was crafted by skilled artisans during the Qajar era. It’s a prime example of Iran’s splendid artistry.
The wooden frame of the throne showcases the remarkable talents of Qajar craftsmen, with intricate floral patterns and designs that reveal their mastery. Each detail reflects the dedication and skill of those who labored to create this masterpiece. The wood undergoes careful processing and is embellished with layers of gold leaf, adding a captivating glow to the entire design.
What truly captures attention, though, is the array of precious stones embellishing the Peacock Throne. Diamonds, rubies, emeralds, and sapphires, carefully chosen for their beauty and rarity, create a breathtaking spectrum of colors. These gems sparkle against the golden backdrop, turning the Peacock Throne into an unrivaled sight.
Symbolically, the peacock motifs symbolize eternity and royalty. The peacock, renowned for its majestic feathers, has long been linked to regal power and beauty. This masterpiece stands as a testament to Iran’s rich artistic legacy and highlights the unmatched talents of Qajar artisans. The Peacock Throne is indeed a jewel of the National Jewels Museum, showcasing the nation’s cultural heritage for all to admire.
The Daria-i-Noor Diamond
The Daria-i-Noor Diamond, showcased in the Treasury of National Jewels, stands out as a breathtaking pink gem, weighing an impressive 182 carats. Its rarity and stunning color make it one of the world’s largest and most unique diamonds. This diamond has a rich history, intertwined with myths and legends. Once worn as part of a royal armlet during the reign of Naser al-Din Shah, it later found its place adorning a crown adorned with 457 diamonds and 4 rubies.
What makes the Daria-i-Noor truly special is its mesmerizing pink hue, reminiscent of the shimmering sea. Its size and color combine to make it a remarkable natural wonder, symbolizing beauty and elegance in the world of diamonds.
The Daria-i-Noor is cut symmetrically from both sides, with smooth and uniform surfaces. An inscription on one side reads “Sultan Sahibqiran Fath-Ali Shah Qajar 1244,” adding to its historical significance.
Legend has it that Iranians bestowed the name Daria-i-Noor during Nader Shah’s conquest of India, where he brought back treasures including this diamond, alongside the Koh-i-Noor and the Noor-ul-Ain.
Believed to have been extracted from the Golconda mines in India, the Daria-i-Noor remained in the possession of Mughal emperors until 1739 AD. It is also thought to have belonged to dynasties predating the Mughals, such as the Kakatiya dynasty.
The transparency of the Daria-i-Noor is exceptional, described as a magnificent jewel with unparalleled brilliance. It is considered one of the purest and most unique diamonds globally, with a rich history dating back to the seventeenth century.
Despite its historical significance and rarity, the Daria-i-Noor remains unmatched in size and beauty. Its discovery remains a testament to the wonders of nature, with such large pink diamonds being exceedingly rare. It is highly unlikely that another diamond of its size and caliber will ever be found.
Crowns and Tiaras
In the Treasury of National Jewels, you can explore a special collection of crowns and tiaras that belonged to different kings and queens throughout Iran’s history. These fancy headpieces represent the highest level of beauty and show the importance and strength of their time.
One of the best examples is the Kiani Crown, made for Fath-Ali Shah during the Qajar dynasty. It’s like a masterpiece with lots of shiny gems like diamonds, emeralds, rubies, and pearls. Each gem is picked carefully and put in its place perfectly, making the Kiani Crown look stunning. The crown has beautiful designs of flowers and leaves, showing how artistic people were during the Qajar era.
Another famous crown is the Pahlavi Crown, which was a symbol of power during the Pahlavi dynasty. It’s made of valuable metals like gold and silver, showing the amazing skills of Iranian jewelers. Covered in many diamonds, rubies, emeralds, and other precious stones, the Pahlavi Crown looks majestic and impressive. It reminds us of Iran’s rich culture during the Pahlavi time.
Besides crowns, there are also tiaras in the museum. These pretty headpieces, worn by queens and princesses, have different gems on them, showing Iran’s royal style and good taste. Each tiara tells its own story, reflecting the art and culture of its time.
One special tiara is the Noor-ul-Ain Tiara, worn by Queen Farah Pahlavi. It’s made by a famous jeweler in New York and has a unique diamond in the middle, part of the amazing Daria-i-Noor diamond. Surrounded by more diamonds, the Noor-ul-Ain Tiara looks very shiny and elegant. It’s a perfect example of beauty and grace.
Pahlavi Crown
The Pahlavi Crown is one of the most famous and precious treasures housed in the Treasury of National Jewels. It was specially ordered by Reza Shah and worn not only during his coronation but also during the coronation of his son, Mohammad Reza Shah. This magnificent crown was meticulously crafted in the year 1304 by a team of highly skilled Iranian jewelers.
If you examine the Pahlavi Crown closely, you’ll be amazed by its intricate details. The main body of the crown is made of a combination of gold and silver, beautifully adorned with stunning diamonds, large emerald cabochons, blue sapphires, and lustrous pearls. Its cap is crafted from luxurious red velvet, with a prominent large emerald placed prominently at its peak. Each side of the crown features stepped pyramids, reminiscent of the crowns worn by the ancient Sasanian kings. Beneath the foremost pyramid, a large yellow diamond is surrounded by rays of smaller diamonds, giving the impression of a radiant sun.
The Pahlavi Crown boasts an impressive array of gemstones, including a total of 3,380 diamonds, 5 emeralds, 2 blue sapphires, and 368 pearls. In terms of weight, the crown, along with its velvet cap, weighs approximately 444 mithqals, equivalent to two kilograms and eighty grams. This crown in the Treasury of National Jewels not only symbolizes royalty and grandeur but also represents the rich cultural heritage of Iran, making it a truly invaluable treasure in the nation’s collection of jewels.
Empress’s Crown
Among the other famous royal crowns in the Treasury of National Jewels of Iran, one stands out: the crown worn by Farah Pahlavi during her coronation, a crown exclusively worn by her. The story behind this crown is fascinating: In response to the protests of the 1940s, Mohammad Reza Shah decided to bring about reforms through the White Revolution.
As part of this, he granted freedom to Iranian women. To symbolize this reform, he organized a coronation ceremony for his wife, Farah Diba. This was unprecedented, as Iranian queens had never been crowned before.
For this special occasion, a crown was needed, and the French jewelry company “Van Cleef & Arpels” was tasked with creating it.
According to tradition, the crown had to be made using jewels from the royal treasury. However, since removing these jewels from Iran was not feasible, the French company had to come to Iran to craft the crown. It took six months to make, resulting in one of Iran’s most beautiful crowns.
The Farah Pahlavi Crown is crafted from white gold and adorned with a green velvet cap. It boasts 36 green emeralds, 105 pearls, 34 rubies, 2 spinels, and a staggering 1,469 diamonds. A remarkable 92-carat green emerald at the front adds to its splendor.
Farah Diba, in her memoirs, describes the crown as incredibly beautiful but also very heavy, estimating its weight to be around two kilograms. This crown not only symbolizes a historic moment in Iran’s history but also represents the grace and elegance of its wearer.
The Globe of Jewels
The Globe of Jewels in the Treasury of National Jewels is like a big, shiny ball covered in beautiful gems. It’s one of the coolest things you’ll see at the National Jewels Museum. Imagine a huge globe, about 66 centimeters wide, made with 34 kilograms of gold and 3656 grams of jewels. That’s a lot of bling! This amazing globe was made by special artists, and it’s all about showing off their incredible skills and how much they pay attention to every little detail.
Naser al-Din Shah, who was in charge back then, ordered this globe to be made. It’s not just any regular globe you’d find in a classroom. No way! This one has different gems marking different places on Earth. Each gem represents something special about that place, like its colors or features. For example, diamonds might show snowy mountains, emeralds could mean lush green forests, rubies might stand for busy cities, and sapphires could represent the deep blue sea.
It’s not easy making something like the Globe of Jewels. It takes a lot of skill, careful planning, and a ton of time. But when you finally see it, you’ll be blown away by how amazing it looks. Visiting the Treasury of National Jewels and seeing this globe is like going on a journey around the world without leaving the room. It’s a reminder that no matter where we come from, we’re all connected, and our world is full of beauty and wonder. The Globe of Jewels is like a shining symbol of that, proudly displayed in the National Jewels Museum for everyone to admire.
Golden Belt
Another famous jewel in the Treasury of National Jewels that we visited is the golden belt. It is made of a woven gold band, 119 centimeters long, adorned with a unique oval-shaped emerald weighing 176 carats, which doubles its radiance. This emerald itself is embellished with 60 brilliant diamonds and 145 flame-cut diamonds, adding a dazzling sparkle to the belt. The construction of this golden belt, like the Globe of Jewels, was commissioned by Naser al-Din Shah and was used by him in various ceremonies.
Unlocking the Magnificence: Exploring the Treasury of National Jewels
In the heart of historical marvels lies a trove of unparalleled beauty – the Treasury of National Jewels. Each gem and artifact within the walls of Treasury of National Jewels whispers stories of opulence, tradition, and the rich tapestry of Iranian history. From crowns adorned with the most exquisite diamonds to belts woven with threads of pure gold, every piece in this treasury is a testament to the artistic brilliance and cultural heritage of Iran.
As you journey through the Treasury of National Jewels, you’re not just witnessing mere objects; you’re stepping into a realm where the past intertwines with the present, where craftsmanship meets royalty, and where every gemstone holds a tale waiting to be told. Whether it’s the legendary Naderi Crown or the captivating Farah Pahlavi Crown, each piece beckons you to unravel its mysteries and immerse yourself in its splendor.
Yet, amidst the dazzle and grandeur, questions may arise – about the craftsmanship, the stories behind each jewel, or the historical significance of a particular artifact. Fear not, for we are here to guide you. If this article hasn’t answered all your queries or if you seek further insights into the treasures housed within the Treasury of National Jewels, we invite you to reach out to us. The GetBookOnline.com team of is ready to illuminate the shadows of uncertainty and enrich your understanding of these magnificent treasures.
So, come forth, fellow seekers of beauty and knowledge, and embark on a journey through time and elegance. Let the Treasury of National Jewels be your gateway to a world where history gleams with the brilliance of a thousand diamonds, and where every question finds its answer in the timeless allure of precious gems.