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Orlov

Orlov

Specifications

WeightApprox. 195 carats*
Dimensions34.92 x 31.75 x 24.6 mm*
ColorColorless
Weight of RoughMogul, estimated 275.65 carats
OriginIndia
Date FoundCut from Mogul, c. 1680
Current LocationRussian Diamond Fund, Kremlin

*Derived from GemCad modeling.

Details

The Orlov Diamond: History, Origins, and Legacy

The Orlov Diamond is one of the most enigmatic and historically significant diamonds of India. Its origins remain shrouded in mystery, with no verified records of its early history. Legends and myths abound, but factual documentation begins only when Count Orlov purchased the diamond and presented it to Catherine the Great of Russia in 1772. In 1784, the diamond was set atop the imperial sceptre, where it has remained ever since.

Figure 1. The Mogul as Drawn by Tavernier

The Orlov possesses a complex and irregular facet pattern, which makes detailed analysis challenging. Careful examination of photographs, combined with descriptions from those who have seen the diamond, allows for a reasonably accurate reconstruction of its shape and dimensions. Reported measurements vary slightly: some sources list the diamond as 35 x 32 x 21 mm, while others record 47.6 mm in height, 31.75 mm in width, and 34.92 mm in length. Based on photographic analysis, the most accurate dimensions are estimated at 34.92 x 31.75 x 24.6 mm, with depth varying due to its non-flat bottom. Its largest dimension, when oriented north-south, matches the width reported by Russian records.

(2a) Mogul

(2b) Orlov

(3c) Orlov (black) inside Mogul (blue) – side view
Figures 3a, 3b, 3c (side views)

The Orlov is clearly of Indian origin, and its distinctive shape has led some historians to compare it to half of an egg—a description reminiscent of the Mogul Diamond, also from India. Alexander Fersman, a noted Russian geologist and gemmologist, studied the Orlov in 1922 and suggested that it may have been cut from the Mogul Diamond. While the Mogul was larger, at 279 carats, and the Orlov smaller, at approximately 195 carats, historical and dimensional analysis supports the possibility that the Orlov was recut from the Mogul to remove flaws and create a more perfect gemstone.

(3a) Mogul (side view)

(3b) Orlov (side view)

(3c) Orlov (black) inside Mogul (blue) – side view
Figures 3a, 3b, 3c (side views)

Although modelling indicates that the Orlov could fit within the outline of the Mogul, differences in topography—particularly the shallower crown of the Orlov—make a precise match impossible. However, considering the potential inaccuracies of Tavernier’s 17th-century drawing of the Mogul, it is plausible that the Orlov was derived from the larger diamond. Historical accounts suggest that Shah Jahan may have requested the recut to improve the stone, and it eventually came into European hands, ultimately purchased by Count Orlov in Amsterdam.

(4a) Side View (before)

(4b) Top View (before)

(4c) Side View (add 16 carats)

(4d) Top View (add 16 carats)

The diamond’s journey from India to Russia reflects the complex movement of precious stones during periods of conquest and trade. Fersman notes that the Mogul, referred to as the Darya-i-Noor (Sea of Light) at one point, was taken by Nadir Shah when he sacked Delhi in 1737. By the time Count Orlov acquired the diamond in 1772, it had traveled across continents, ultimately becoming a centrepiece of the Russian imperial treasury.

Throughout its history, the Orlov Diamond has been associated with power, prestige, and intrigue. Set atop the sceptre of Catherine the Great, it continues to symbolize Russia’s historical connection to some of the world’s most famous and valuable diamonds. Its fascinating journey—from the mines of India, through the hands of emperors and conquerors, to its present location in the Kremlin Diamond Fund—cements its status as a legendary gem with a story as remarkable as its brilliance.

Learn more about the Orlov Diamond here.

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