Chinese Diamonds For The King Of Kings Illustrated: A Historical and Cultural Exploration

Chinese Diamonds For The King Of Kings Illustrated is a groundbreaking book that explores the historical and cultural significance of Chinese diamonds in the context of the Chinese-Portuguese trade relationship during the 16th and 17th centuries. This lavishly illustrated book features over 200 stunning images of Chinese diamonds, jewelry, and artifacts, providing a unique visual record of this fascinating period in history.

The book's author, Dr. João Pedro Henriques, is a leading expert on Chinese diamonds and the Chinese-Portuguese trade. He has spent years researching this topic, and his book is the culmination of his extensive knowledge and research.

Chinese Diamonds for the King of Kings (Illustrated)

by Rosalind Goforth

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1158 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	78 pages
Paperback	:	128 pages
Item Weight	:	1.6 ounces
Dimensions	:	4.38 x 0.38 x 5.88 inches

FREE

In Chinese Diamonds For The King Of Kings Illustrated, Dr. Henriques traces the history of Chinese diamonds from their discovery in the Chinese province of Yunnan in the 16th century to their eventual arrival in Europe. He explores the role that Chinese diamonds played in the development of the global diamond trade and the cultural exchange between China and Portugal.

The Discovery of Chinese Diamonds

The discovery of Chinese diamonds in the province of Yunnan in the 16th century was a major event in the history of the diamond trade. Prior to this discovery, diamonds were only known to come from India. The discovery of Chinese diamonds opened up a new source of these precious stones and led to a significant increase in the global supply of diamonds.

The Chinese diamonds were quickly recognized for their exceptional quality and beauty. They were often larger and clearer than Indian diamonds, and they were said to have a unique sparkle that was unmatched by any other diamonds.

The Chinese-Portuguese Diamond Trade

The discovery of Chinese diamonds led to a surge in trade between China and Portugal. The Portuguese were eager to acquire these precious stones, and they established a trading post in the Chinese city of Macau in 1557.

The Portuguese traders played a major role in the development of the Chinese diamond trade. They introduced new mining techniques and technologies to China, and they helped to establish a network of trade routes that connected China with Europe.

The Chinese-Portuguese diamond trade flourished for over a century. During this time, millions of carats of Chinese diamonds were exported to Europe. These diamonds were used to make jewelry for the royal courts and the wealthy elite.

Chinese Diamonds and the King of Kings

One of the most famous Chinese diamonds is the "King of Kings" diamond. This massive diamond was discovered in the Chinese province of Yunnan in the 17th century. It weighed over 200 carats and was said to be the largest diamond in the world at the time.

The King of Kings diamond was eventually acquired by the Portuguese king, João IV. The king had the diamond cut and polished, and it was set into a magnificent necklace. The necklace was worn by the Portuguese queen, Luísa de Gusmão, and it became one of the most famous pieces of jewelry in the world.

The Legacy of Chinese Diamonds

The Chinese diamond trade had a profound impact on the global diamond trade and on the cultural exchange between China and Portugal. Chinese diamonds helped to fuel the development of the global diamond trade, and they played a major role in the development of the Portuguese empire.

The legacy of Chinese diamonds can still be seen today in the jewelry collections of the world's museums and in the private collections of wealthy individuals. Chinese diamonds are prized for their exceptional quality and beauty, and they continue to be a symbol of luxury and wealth.

Chinese Diamonds For The King Of Kings Illustrated is a comprehensive and richly illustrated book that explores the historical and cultural significance of Chinese diamonds in the context of the Chinese-Portuguese trade relationship during the 16th and 17th centuries. This book offers a unique perspective on the history of cultural exchange and the global diamond trade and is a valuable resource for scholars, collectors, and anyone interested in Chinese history and culture.

Buy the book now

Chinese Diamonds for the King of Kings (Illustrated)

by Rosalind Goforth

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1158 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	78 pages
Paperback	:	128 pages
Item Weight	:	1.6 ounces
Dimensions	:	4.38 x 0.38 x 5.88 inches

FREE