Why the Maharajas Are Considered the Original Kings of Bling

Why the Maharajas Are Considered the Original Kings of Bling

Antique Royal
Antique Royal
Nov 27, 2025  #jewelry #diamonds #rubies

In 18th and 19th Century India, male rulers wore sparkling #jewelry to show off their wealth and power. The large jewels included #diamonds, #rubies and #emeralds worn almost exclusively by men — specifically, the kings and princes known as "maharajas."

NBC Bay Area Digital Video Journalist Jonathan Bloom takes you to San Francisco's Legion of Honor, where an exhibition of Indian royal jewels is being held.