This turban jewel is a superb example of precious stone setting in jade. In the upper section, emeralds, rubies and crystals are cut to fit each leaf with as many as seven small, shaped rubies on one leaf, though most have only one or two. The veins of the leaves have been carved onto the shaped gemstones before setting. At the back, relief decoration on the surface of the jade also suggests flowers and leaves. A ring behind the large rosette would have held a feather plume, while the stem would have been used to fit the ornament into a turban. Wearing turban jewels was originally the prerogative of rulers and the royal family in the Mughal empire. By the 18th century, as Mughal power diminished, regional rulers took this emblem of royalty for themselves.
The turban jewel was part of the collection of Indian hardstones, including imperial Mughal artefacts, owned by Colonel Charles Seton Guthrie. He sold much of his collection to the Indian Museum in Leadenhall Street, London, and his objects were transferred in 1879 to this museum. This turban jewel, exceptionally, was a gift by Guthrie to the Indian Museum.