Beginning in the 18th century and lasting until 1947, Great Britain ruled over India. During this time, Maharajas, meaning “Great Ruler”, enjoyed unparalleled opulence and magnificent lifestyles, the likes of which will never be seen again.
Among the largest and wealthiest kingdoms in India during that time was the Royal House of Patiala,
Beginning in the 18th century and lasting until 1947, Great Britain ruled over India. During this time, Maharajas, meaning “Great Ruler”, enjoyed unparalleled opulence and magnificent lifestyles, the likes of which will never be seen again.
Among the largest and wealthiest kingdoms in India during that time was the Royal House of Patiala, Sandra Singh’s paternal family. The kingdom had a formidable reputation for its jewelry collection, including commissioned pieces by European high jewelry houses such as Cartier, Boucheron, Van Cleef & Arpels, and Garrards of London.
With the 8th king, Maharaja Bhupinder Singh, dreams of decadent adornment met their grandest buyer. Known as “the Maharaja’s Maharaja” for his imposing presence and extravagant lifestyle, in 1928, His Highness ordered the largest single commissioned piece of jewelry executed by Cartier, known as “The Patiala Necklace”. This stunning Art D
With the 8th king, Maharaja Bhupinder Singh, dreams of decadent adornment met their grandest buyer. Known as “the Maharaja’s Maharaja” for his imposing presence and extravagant lifestyle, in 1928, His Highness ordered the largest single commissioned piece of jewelry executed by Cartier, known as “The Patiala Necklace”. This stunning Art Deco styled bib-collar necklace is likely the most notable piece of jewelry ever created, with over 1000 carats of total weight, centered on the 234 carat fancy yellow DeBeers Diamond, the 7th largest in the world.
Sandra Singh’s grandmother, known for her own collection of exquisite rubies, began passing down pieces of her jewelry collection to Sandra during her youth. Fascination with her royal family roots inspired Sandra to treasure the unique legacy of haute jewelry designs created for her ancestors, creating new collections for today’s fashions and budgets.