The Pasha Diamond is one of the lesser-known yet fascinating entries among the most famous diamonds in history. Its story bridges royal luxury, artistic transformation, and the enduring allure of rare gemstones.

The earliest documented mention of the Pasha Diamond comes from Dieulafait (1874), who described it as an octagonal-shaped diamond weighing approximately 40 carats. The octagonal form made it exceptionally rare — few other historic diamonds shared this geometric design. The diamond was believed to possess remarkable clarity and a soft, warm brilliance that reflected the cutting techniques of its time.

Over the years, the Pasha passed through the hands of some of the world’s most notable collectors. Among its distinguished owners were King Farouk of Egypt, known for his passion for opulent jewels, and Barbara Hutton, the American Woolworth heiress whose personal collection included some of the world’s most valuable historical diamonds.

However, the Pasha’s unique form did not survive modern tastes. Barbara Hutton reportedly disliked the octagonal cut, considering it outdated compared to the contemporary brilliance of round stones. Under her direction, the diamond was recut into a 36-carat round brilliant, permanently erasing its historic octagonal shape. While the recutting enhanced its fire and sparkle, it also removed an important link to its past — the only known octagonal historic diamond was lost to history.

Today, the Pasha Diamond stands as a reminder of the tension between preservation and modernization in the world of gems. Its transformation reflects how beauty, fashion, and craftsmanship evolve with time, even at the cost of altering a piece of history. Though the original octagonal version no longer exists, its legend continues to captivate gem historians and collectors alike, marking it as one of the legendary diamonds with royal history that bridges eras of elegance and artistry.