The Kohinoor, meaning "Mountain of Light" in Persian, is one of the most historically significant and controversial diamonds in the world. Its origins are shrouded in mystery, with some legends tracing its existence back to 3000 BC. The first documented account of the diamond appears in the 16th century, where it was said to be in the possession of the Kakatiya dynasty in India.
Over the centuries, the Kohinoor passed through the hands of various rulers, including the Mughals, Persians, Afghans, and Sikhs. It was eventually acquired by the British East India Company in 1849, following the annexation of Punjab, and presented to Queen Victoria as a symbol of British dominance in India.