When the Koh-i-nûr was presented to Queen Victoria, she knew it was a spectacular diamond, but did not think it particularly well-cut, and definitely not shiny enough for a rock called the mountain of light. Master jeweller Sebastian Garrard examined the diamond and its accompanying set, and had a crystal facsimile as well as mould made, before attempting a re-cut.

Now a part of the glittering state jewels, and only worn by women of the royal family, we forget that the Koh-i-Nûr was once in an arm-band, much larger than it is now, and had a dull brilliance to it.