Abstract
This dissertation explores the politics surrounding diamonds acquired during British colonial rule in South Africa and India that are now in the Crown Jewels. The interest in the 'stolen' diamonds is motivated by more contemporary appeals for the 'stolen' diamonds to be returned to their home countries since the 2022 passing away of Queen Elizabeth II and the crowning of King Charles III in 2023. The research explores the reason that precious diamonds such as the Cullinan and the Koh-I-Noor diamonds were taken from their countries and became part of the British Crown Jewels by analysing existing artworks, jewellery and other objects that embody imperial conquest, power and dominance. Frameworks of decolonial and postcolonial theory are applied to consider relevant Indian and South African visual culture relating to the Crown Jewels. While postcolonial theory offers a useful framework for understanding the historical impact of colonisation, decolonial theory is also foregrounded. The main topics covered in this dissertation are symbols of colonialism, the invention and reinvention of traditions and histories of the Cullinan and Koh-I-Noor and the purpose of possible restitution of colonial loot to countries that were subjected to colonial rule.