The Golconda Diamond Mines, A History Of Control, Influence And Commerce

The Golconda diamond mines, located in the Deccan region of South India (modern-day Telangana), have a rich and layered history of control and influence. These mines were a major source of diamonds and earned global fame.

The mines controlled by various rulers through history. Besides adding some of the finest Golconda diamonds to their treasury, the rulers also encouraged diamond trade in the region. This attracted traders from Persia, Arabia, and Europe.

CONTROL OVER THE GOLCONDA MINES

Qutb Shahi Dynasty (1518–1687)

The Golconda region, including its famous diamond mines (such as Kollur), was originally under the control of the Qutb Shahi dynasty, which ruled the Golconda Sultanate. The Qutb Shahis were known to have actively promoted diamond mining and trade. Golconda became a hub of commerce, attracting diamond traders from across the globe.

Mughal Empire (1687 onward)

In 1687, Mughal emperor Aurangzeb conquered the Golconda Sultanate after a prolonged siege, and incorporated it into the Mughal Empire. The diamond mines then came under Mughal control. Many famous diamonds, such as the Koh-i-Noor and Hope Diamond, passed through Golconda during this period—often ending up in the Mughal treasury.

Mughal control over the Deccan region and the diamond mines, weakened after the death of emperor Aurangzeb in 1707. Treasures including diamonds from the treasury of the Mughals, were known to have been stolen or sold without being recorded.

Asaf Jahi Dynasty / Nizams of Hyderabad (1724–1948)

After the weakening of Mughal authority, Asaf Jah I, a Mughal governor, declared independence in 1724 and established the Hyderabad State. Bringing the diamond mines in Golconda under the control of the Nizam’s, Asaf Jah 1 realized the importance of guarding the mining locations and the riverbeds, that lay in the surrounding area.

It was not uncommon for diamonds, to be carried down by the river – they would then settle in the loose silt of the riverbed. A few modern day diamond experts claim that, the Seraphim Blue Diamond is likely to have been found in a riverbed.

While the Golconda origin of the blue diamond, seems to be agreed on – the riverbed origin theory, has not gained much importance. The Seraphim Blue Diamond adorned an opulent turban ornament worn by the first Nizam of Hyderabad, on special occasions. The Wittelsbach-Graff Diamond another famed blue diamond from the Golconda diamond mines, is also believed to have been found in the riverbeds, not far from the mines.

The Nizams of Hyderabad were committed to improve the life of the people in the region. A portion of revenue from the diamond trade in the region, was earmarked for development of the region and the welfare of the people. The Nizams, controlled the region—including the Golconda mines—until Indian independence in 1947 and the formal annexation of Hyderabad into India in 1948.

DEPLETION OF THE GOLCONDA MINES

Mining in the Golconda region is believed to have started as early as the 13th century or earlier. By the time of the Qutb Shahi and Mughal rule, diamond mining was a major industry, attracting foreign traders from Europe and the Middle East. By the late 17th and 18th centuries, the easily accessible diamond-bearing gravel layers had largely been exhausted.

Despite depletion, Golconda’s name lives on through its legendary diamonds, such as the Koh-I-Noor Diamond, Hope Diamond, Seraphim Blue Diamond, Regent Diamond and the Daria-i-Noor Diamond.

SUMMARY

Diamonds from the Golconda mines are not just precious stones — they are historical relics, royal heirlooms, and rare geological marvels. That combination makes them among the most expensive and sought-after luxury assets in the world today.