The Treasury of National Jewels in Tehran is home to one of the most impressive collections of jewels and treasures in the world. With dazzling crowns, thrones, and rare gems, it gives visitors a glimpse into the wealth and history of Persian royalty.
Whether you’re interested in history, art, or simply the beauty of jewels, visiting this museum will be an unforgettable experience. In this article, we’ll go over all the important information you need to know before you visit.
Overview of Treasury of National Jewels
The Treasury of National Jewels, located in the Central Bank of Iran in Tehran, is considered one of the most significant Tehran attractions because it houses an extraordinary collection of priceless jewels and treasures that once belonged to the Persian monarchy. The collection dates back to the Safavid dynasty and includes some of the most famous and valuable pieces in the world, such as the Darya-i-Noor diamond, the Peacock Throne, and numerous crowns, tiaras, and ceremonial swords.
The jewels were symbols of royal power and wealth, but they also played an important role in the country’s economy and diplomacy. Today, the treasury is open to the public as a museum, allowing visitors to explore centuries of Persian history and craftsmanship through these stunning artifacts. However, security is very strict, and guided tours are required for visitors.
Location of Treasury of National Jewels
The Treasury of National Jewels is located in the heart of Tehran, Iran, within the Central Bank of Iran building. The exact address is on Ferdowsi Avenue, close to several major landmarks, making it easily accessible for visitors. Here’s the exact address of the museum:
The Treasury of National Jewels, The Central Bank of the Islamic Republic of Iran, No. 140, Ferdowsi Ave., Tehran, Iran
How to Get to the Treasury of National Jewels in Tehran?
To get to the Treasury in Tehran, there are several convenient options:
- By Metro: The easiest way to reach the Treasury is by taking the Tehran Metro. The nearest station is Ferdowsi Station on Line 4 (Yellow Line). From there, it’s just a short walk to the Central Bank of Iran building.
- By Taxi: Taxis are widely available throughout Tehran. You can ask the driver to take you to “Muzeh Javaherate Melli” (National Jewelry Museum) or the Central Bank of Iran on Ferdowsi Avenue.
- By Bus: Tehran’s extensive bus network also serves the area around Ferdowsi Avenue. Look for buses heading toward the city center, then walk to the museum from the nearest stop.
- On Foot: If you’re staying nearby or visiting other attractions in central Tehran, the museum is within walking distance from popular landmarks like the National Museum of Iran and Golestan Palace.
Treasury of National Jewels Photos
Treasury of National Jewels Working Hours
The Treasury of National Jewels is open to the public for limited hours during the week. The typical working hours are:
- Saturday to Tuesday: 1:00 PM to 3:30 PM (ticket counter closes at 3:00 PM)
- Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and public holidays: Closed
It’s worth noting that the entry ticket price for the Treasury is 3,000,000 IRR.
The Treasury of National Jewels Collection
The Treasury of National Jewels holds one of the world’s most significant and luxurious collections of gems, crowns, thrones, and other royal artifacts. Each item in the collection tells a story of the country’s monarchy and its influence on global trade and diplomacy.
The Darya-ye Noor Diamond (The Sea of Light)
The Darya-ye Noor is one of the largest and most valuable diamonds in the world, weighing an astonishing 182 carats. Its pale pink hue makes it especially rare, and it has been passed down through Persian rulers since the Safavid era. This diamond is believed to have been part of the famous Koh-i-Noor diamond before they were separated.
The Samarian Spinel
Weighing an impressive 500 carats, the Samarian Spinel is the largest known spinel in the world. This brilliant red gemstone is believed to have originated in Central Asia and became part of the Persian royal collection during the reign of the Safavid dynasty. It is notable for the deep red color and intricate carvings that adorn its surface.
Nader Shah’s Sword
Nader Shah’s Sword is a ceremonial weapon, lavishly decorated with diamonds, rubies, and emeralds. This sword belonged to one of Iran’s most powerful rulers, Nader Shah, and symbolizes his military might and authority.
Sun Throne
The Sun Throne, also known as the Peacock Throne, is an ornately designed royal seat adorned with precious jewels and gold. Used by Qajar kings, the throne is named for its design, which features a large sun motif behind the seat.
Noor-ul-Ain
The Noor-ul-Ain is a breathtaking pink diamond weighing about 60 carats. Set in a tiara created for Empress Farah Pahlavi during her wedding, this diamond is considered one of the world’s most beautiful gems. The tiara itself is studded with numerous other diamonds.
Kiani Crown
The Kiani Crown was worn by kings of the Qajar dynasty and is a symbol of their rule. Unlike many traditional crowns, it is made from red velvet and is encrusted with thousands of precious stones, including pearls, diamonds, and emeralds.
Pahlavi Crown
The Pahlavi Crown was designed for the coronation of Reza Shah Pahlavi, the founder of the Pahlavi dynasty. This stunning crown is adorned with over 3,000 precious gems, including diamonds, pearls, and emeralds. Its design is a blend of traditional Persian elements with modern styles, which represents the transition of Iran into a modern monarchy.
Empress’s Crown
Created for Empress Farah Pahlavi’s coronation, the Empress’s Crown is a masterpiece. Made by French jeweler Van Cleef & Arpels, it is set with 1,541 diamonds, 1469 pearls, and various emeralds and rubies. The crown is elegant yet lavish, beautifully representing the grace and power of the last empress of Iran.
Golden Belt
The Golden Belt is a ceremonial piece worn by Persian kings during formal events. The belt is made of solid gold and adorned with diamonds, rubies, and emeralds to show the wealth and status of the monarchy. It is a striking example of Persian craftsmanship and attention to detail.
The Emerald-studded Globe
The Emerald-studded Globe is an astonishingly detailed globe made in the 19th century under the Qajar dynasty. It is covered with over 51,000 precious stones, including emeralds, rubies, and diamonds. The oceans are represented by emeralds, while the landmasses are adorned with diamonds.
The Naderi Throne
The Naderi Throne is another impressive royal seat made for the Qajar kings. Adorned with thousands of gems, it is named after the great Persian ruler Nader Shah. The throne’s design features lion motifs and elaborate carvings.
Jeweled Decor
Beyond crowns and thrones, the Treasury houses many other luxurious jeweled items, including swords, shields, and even household objects like bowls and vases. Each piece is decorated with the finest gems and precious metals.
History of Treasury of National Jewels in Tehran
The history of the Treasury of National Jewels in Tehran dates back to the Safavid dynasty (1501–1736), when Persian rulers began amassing vast collections of precious gems and artifacts. These treasures were used for diplomatic gifts, ceremonial occasions, and trade.
When Nader Shah of the Afsharid dynasty (1736–1747) expanded Persian territories, he brought back an enormous amount of loot, including treasures from the Mughal Empire, after his conquest of India. Among the spoils were legendary pieces like the Darya-ye Noor diamond and the Peacock Throne, which became part of the Persian crown jewels.
During the Qajar dynasty (1789–1925), the collection continued to grow, with several new pieces, such as the Kiani Crown, becoming part of the royal regalia. The jewels served as collateral for state loans and were used in political negotiations.
In the early 20th century, with the fall of the Qajar dynasty and the rise of Reza Shah Pahlavi, the collection underwent significant changes. Reza Shah commissioned the creation of the Pahlavi Crown for his coronation in 1926, marking the beginning of the modern era of Iran’s monarchy. The crown jewels continued to be a vital part of royal ceremonies during the reign of Mohammad Reza Shah Pahlavi.
After the Iranian Revolution in 1979, the monarchy was abolished, and the jewels were placed under the control of the Central Bank of Iran. The treasury became a national museum, and the jewels are now a cultural and historical symbol of Iran, preserved for public display.
Conclusion
The Treasury of National Jewels is a stunning collection of Iran’s rich history and royal heritage. From the famous Darya-ye Noor diamond to the beautiful Pahlavi Crown, every piece highlights the power and wealth of Persian kings. Visiting the treasury allows you to see the incredible craftsmanship and grandeur of Iran’s past. For anyone interested in history or beautiful gems, this collection is a must-see.
FAQs:
Q1: How much does the Treasury of National Jewels worth?
The exact value of the Treasury is difficult to pinpoint due to the unique nature of its items and their historical significance. However, it is estimated to be worth several billion dollars.