When it comes to grandeur and heritage, few names shine as brightly as Nita Ambani. At the Miss World 2024 Finals, she made headlines not only for her presence but also for the breathtaking jewel she wore — an ultra-rare Mughal-era bajuband (armlet), valued at over ₹200 crore.
This historic ornament didn’t just dazzle with its beauty; it carried with it centuries of legacy, royal connection, and unmatched craftsmanship.
The Mughal Legacy Behind the Bajuband
The bajuband Nita Ambani wore is believed to have once belonged to the legendary Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, the very ruler who gifted the world the Taj Mahal. Mughal emperors were known for their extravagant taste in gems — diamonds from Golconda, rubies from Burma, and emeralds from Colombia often found their way into their treasuries.
This bajuband is a surviving piece of that legacy, combining luxury, artistry, and history in one ornament.
Design & Craftsmanship
What makes this bajuband extraordinary is not just its age but the level of detail and skill involved:
- Material: Crafted in gold, a metal favored by the Mughal court for its richness and malleability.
- Gemstones Used: Embedded with diamonds, rubies, and spinels, creating a striking contrast of deep reds and sparkling whites.
- Technique: Designed in the rare Pachhikakaam style, an ancient setting method where stones are mounted without excessive gold covering, allowing them to shine in their natural brilliance.
- Dimensions: Measuring about 13.7 cm in height and 19.8 cm in width, the piece is bold and regal — far from being a delicate accessory.
Every detail whispers stories of Mughal grandeur and their unmatched patronage of artisans.
Gemmological Insights
From a gemmology perspective, this bajuband is a treasure trove:
- Diamonds: Likely of Golconda origin, famous for producing flawless, Type IIa diamonds with exceptional transparency and brilliance.
- Rubies & Spinels: These vibrant red stones were prized during Mughal times, often mistaken for one another, but both symbolized power and protection.
- Durability: The combination of stones with different hardness levels (Diamond: 10 Mohs, Ruby/Spinel: 8 Mohs) reflects careful planning to balance aesthetics with preservation.
The overall design ensures the gemstones dominate visually, a classic Mughal preference that showcased wealth and spiritual symbolism.
Why It Matters Today
For modern audiences, jewellery like this is more than an ornament. It represents:
- Heritage: A direct connection to India’s royal past.
- Craftsmanship: Techniques like Pachhikakaam that are nearly extinct today.
- Cultural Pride: Showcasing Indian artistry on an international platform like Miss World.
By wearing this piece, Nita Ambani not only celebrated beauty but also paid homage to India’s rich jewellery tradition.
The ₹200+ crore Mughal bajuband worn by Nita Ambani at Miss World 2024 is more than a jewel — it’s a living piece of history. From Shah Jahan’s royal treasury to the global spotlight, it bridges centuries of artistry, gemmology, and cultural heritage.
As fashion comes and goes, pieces like this remind us that true jewellery is eternal — not just in value, but in the stories it carries.