The Taj Mahal Diamond of Elizabeth Taylor set to be auctioned

The Taj Mahal Diamond with Gold and Rubies chord designed by Cartier. Photo courtesy : Christie's

The "Taj Mahal Diamond" was a 40th birthday present to Elizabeth Taylor from her husband, Richard Burton. After the Taj Mahal Diamond was in her possession, Elizabeth had the original silk chord replaced with one fashioned with Diamonds and Rubies designed by Cartier. 

Taj Mahal Diamond is inscribed with the name Nur Jahan, the wife of the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahangir. This heart-shaped Diamond is believed to have been a gift from the ruler to his son, who became the great emperor Shah Jahan (1592-1666). At the age of 35, it is believed that the young prince presented the Diamond to his favorite and most beloved wife, Mumtaz-i-Mahal. The emperor’s grief at her death just four years later was legendary – in her memory he commissioned the majestic Taj Mahal – one of the seven wonders of the world.

Burton purchased the Diamond for a reported cost of £350,000 . Burton famously remarked of the gift, "I would have liked to buy her the Taj Mahal but it would cost too much to transport."

Elizabeth Taylor wearing the Taj Mahal Diamond.

The historical Diamond is all set to be auctioned by Christie's at an estimated cost of  $300,000 – 500,000 dollars.

I think given the rich history, it will be worth more than the estimated cost. What do you think? Share your comments below.