The Patiala Necklace

The Patiala necklace was created in 1928 by the luxury jeweler Cartier for the Maharaja of Patiala. It originally featured 2,930 diamonds, including the famous 234-carat De Beers diamond. This extravagant necklace symbolized royal opulence and Indian heritage. Today, it’s remembered as one of the most iconic pieces of jewelry ever made.

Who owns the patiala necklace?

As of now, the Patiala Necklace is owned by Cartier.

The necklace was originally created in 1928 by Cartier for Maharaja Bhupinder Singh of Patiala, and it featured over 2,900 diamonds, including the massive 234-carat De Beers diamond. Over time, the necklace disappeared and parts of it were later found in different places.

Cartier eventually bought the remnants in the 1990s and restored the necklace, though some of the original stones, like the large De Beers diamond, are still missing.

Where is patiala necklace now?

The Patiala Necklace is currently on display at the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) in London as part of a major Cartier exhibition running from April 12 to November 16, 2025.

This exhibition showcases over 350 pieces highlighting Cartier’s evolution in design and craftsmanship since the early 20th century, including the restored Patiala Necklace.

The necklace, originally crafted by Cartier in 1928 for Maharaja Bhupinder Singh of Patiala, was lost for decades before being rediscovered and partially restored by Cartier in the late 1990s.

In 2022, the necklace gained renewed attention when influencer Emma Chamberlain wore it at the Met Gala. However, in 2025, Indian singer Diljit Dosanjh’s request to wear the necklace for his Met Gala appearance was denied, as the piece was already committed to the V&A exhibition.

The Patiala Necklace remains one of the most iconic and storied pieces in Cartier’s collection, symbolizing the opulence of India’s royal heritage and the intricate craftsmanship of early 20th-century jewelry design.

What Is the Patiala Necklace?

The Patiala Necklace is one of the most extravagant and iconic royal jewelry pieces ever created. Designed in 1928 by Cartier for Maharaja Bhupinder Singh of Patiala, this dazzling necklace originally featured over 2,930 diamonds, including the legendary De Beers diamond, weighing 234 carats. At the time, it was the most expensive necklace ever made, symbolizing royal wealth and prestige.

Royal Commission by Maharaja Bhupinder Singh

In the 1920s, Maharaja Bhupinder Singh, known for his opulent taste and luxurious lifestyle, commissioned Cartier to create a necklace that would leave the world in awe. The result was a magnificent platinum necklace adorned with diamonds, rubies, and Burmese gemstones. The centerpiece was the De Beers diamond — the seventh largest diamond ever known at the time.

Design, Materials & Luxury

The necklace featured an exquisite five-strand design made of platinum, set with diamond-encrusted pendants, multiple chains, and rare stones. The craftsmanship was so intricate that it took months to complete. It wasn’t just a piece of jewelry—it was a work of art and a symbol of Indian royal heritage.

The Mysterious Disappearance

In the 1940s, after Indian independence and the decline of royal influence, the necklace mysteriously vanished from the Patiala treasury. For decades, no one knew what happened to this priceless heirloom. Many believed it had been stolen, dismantled, or lost forever.

Rediscovery & Restoration by Cartier

In 1982, a part of the original necklace was found in a secondhand shop in London—completely stripped of its most precious stones. Cartier bought the remnants and spent years restoring it using synthetic diamonds and substitute stones to replicate the original grandeur. While it was no longer complete, it brought global attention back to the legendary Patiala Necklace.

Modern Influence in Fashion & Film

Today, the Patiala Necklace continues to inspire bridal jewelry designs, red carpet looks, and even Bollywood fashion. It has become a symbol of timeless luxury and Indian heritage, often recreated in high-end wedding collections and royal-themed jewelry sets.

Where to Buy Patiala-Inspired Jewelry

While the original Patiala Necklace is priceless, many jewelers today offer replica necklaces inspired by its regal design. If you’re looking for a statement bridal piece or want to feel like royalty, our collection of Patiala-style gold necklaces offers timeless beauty and unmatched elegance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Who owns the original Patiala Necklace now?

A1: The restored version is owned by Cartier and occasionally displayed in exhibitions.

Q2: What happened to the De Beers diamond?

A2: The original diamond is still missing, and its whereabouts remain unknown.

Q3: Can I buy a replica of the Patiala Necklace?

A3: Yes! Many jewelers, including our store, offer high-quality replicas in gold and silver.

A Necklace That Defined Royal Glamour

The Patiala Necklace is more than just jewelry—it’s a legend. From its royal beginnings to its mysterious disappearance and glorious restoration, it remains one of the most talked-about pieces in jewelry history. Today, you can embrace the spirit of royal elegance with our gold Patiala-inspired necklaces—crafted for queens like you.