11. Queens and the Koh-i-Noor

In this episode of the "Empire" podcast, the journey of the Koh-i-Noor diamond from India to Britain takes center stage, unraveling the myths and controversies surrounding its acquisition and significance. The diamond's story includes a treacherous sea voyage and its arrival in Britain, marked by grim events, including the death of Robert Peel. Its first public appearance at the Great Exhibition of 1851 fell flat due to its uncut condition. The narrative continues with the diamond's transformation, as a team of expert Amsterdam cutters, led by the Duke of Wellington, shaped it into its iconic form. The episode also delves into the complicated relationship between Queen Victoria and Duleep Singh, the last Maharaja of the Sikh Empire. It wraps up by addressing the ongoing debate over repatriating the diamond to India, underscoring its lasting symbolic importance and its role in discussions about colonial treasures. Notably, the diamond's size significantly decreased from 190.3 to 93 metric carats after cutting.