The late Maharani Gayatri Devi of Jaipur continues to inspire the worlds of fashion and high jewellery, decades after her reign as one of India’s most glamorous royals. Known as one of Vogue’s 10 most beautiful women in the world, Gayatri Devi was more than a style icon she was also a politician, women’s rights advocate and a tastemaker whose jewellery choices shaped global trends.
Recently, Jaipur-based jewellery label Varq Jewels shared a curated glimpse into some of the most exquisite pieces from her legendary personal collection, once again bringing her iconic jewels into public conversation. Among the most celebrated is her ruby-and-diamond necklace crafted by Cartier in 1954. Designed in London and gifted by her husband, Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II, the stiff-collar necklace reflected early post-war jewellery trends. Featuring rubies, diamonds and platinum, its detachable centrepiece could also be worn as a brooch. The historic piece was later donated to the British Museum, cementing its legacy.
Pearls, however, remained the Maharani’s signature. Despite owning extraordinary diamonds, emeralds and rubies from luxury maisons such as Cartier, Boucheron, Fabergé and Van Cleef & Arpels, she was often seen pairing elegant pearl strands with her sarees and gowns. A natural pearl and diamond Cartier necklace from her collection, featuring 37 round-to-oval pearls, later fetched millions at a Christie’s auction.
Another standout was her three-strand graduated emerald necklace, created by Cartier in 1937. Set in platinum and dating back to the 18th–19th century, the piece remains one of her most recognisable emerald creations.
Gayatri Devi’s refined aesthetic from her jewellery to her saree styling continues to influence royal wardrobes and modern fashion alike. Her legacy proves that true style is timeless, and her jewels remain symbols of elegance, heritage and enduring global appeal.
