Timur ruby

Detail of the Timur ruby from a painting of Maharaja Sher Singh, by August Schoefft, ca.1841%E2%80%9342

Timur Ruby is a large, historic gemstone that has been part of the crown jewels of the United Kingdom. Despite its name, the Timur Ruby is not actually a ruby. It is a large, red spinel, a common mistake made with many red gemstones before modern gemology distinguished between the two. The stone weighs approximately 361 carats and is inscribed with the names of the various owners who possessed it over the centuries, making it not only a valuable gemstone but also a historical artifact.

History

The Timur Ruby is believed to have originated from the mines in what is now Tajikistan, part of the historic region known as Badakhshan, renowned for its precious stones. The gemstone is named after Timur, also known as Tamerlane, the 14th-century Turko-Mongol conqueror who founded the Timurid Empire. However, there is no concrete evidence that Timur ever owned the gem.

Over the centuries, the Timur Ruby passed through the hands of various rulers in India, including the Mughal emperors. It was during the Mughal era that the stone was engraved with the names of its owners, a testament to its importance and value. The gemstone came into the possession of the British East India Company in the early 19th century, following the Anglo-Sikh Wars. It was then presented to Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom, becoming part of the British crown jewels.

Description

The Timur Ruby is notable not only for its size but also for its historical inscriptions. These inscriptions include the names of several Mughal emperors, such as Akbar and Shah Jahan, underlining its significance in South Asian history. The gemstone's deep red color is characteristic of spinels, but it was long mistaken for a ruby until scientific advancements in gemology clarified its true nature.

Significance

The Timur Ruby's historical and cultural significance lies in its journey through time and empires. It symbolizes the rich history of the Indian subcontinent and the complex interactions between South Asian rulers and the British Empire. As part of the British crown jewels, it also represents the colonial history and the transfer of wealth from the colonies to the British monarchy.

Current Status

Today, the Timur Ruby is kept with the other crown jewels in the Tower of London, where it is a popular attraction among visitors interested in the history of the British monarchy and its treasures. Its story continues to fascinate historians, gemologists, and the general public, serving as a vivid reminder of the past empires and the enduring allure of gemstones.