This brilliant stone was discovered in the 17^th century, which confirms its Indian origin -- at that time, India was the only source for diamonds in the world.

The diamond gets its name from the city of Ahmedabad (probably the only diamond cutting centre in the world then), where it was reportedly purchased by Jean Baptiste Tavernier, a famous French traveller and gem trader.

The rough, which was said to weigh over 157 carats, was cut into a 94.5 carat diamond with, said Tavernier, two minor flaws at the base. He also said he bought it for a friend, but the identity of the friend is unclear.

It is known, however, that much later the diamond was owned by Begum Hazrat Mahal, wife of King Wajid Ali Shah of Oudh. When the king's rebellion against the British failed, the Begum fled to Nepal. She later used the diamond to negotiate her safe passage to India.

At this point, the history of this diamond again becomes murky and, when it finally resurfaced, it had been reduced to 78.86 carats. Put up for sale by Christie's in 1995, it was purchased by gem collector Robert Mouawad for approximately $ 4.3 million.

Information courtesy: Internetstones.com