Lotus-shaped lab-grown diamonds from Surat have made their way into space aboard Skyroot Aerospace's Vikram-1 rocket, according to the CEO of the firm that created them. The diamonds, part of a special lotus collection, were mounted on the rocket that launched under Mission Aagaman from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota on July 18.
First Diamonds from Surat in Space
Rajnikanth Chanchad, CEO of Nityas Gems and Jewellery, claimed that this marks the first time diamonds from the diamond city have been sent into space. “The launch of the Vikram-1 rocket is a moment of great pride for India. And Surat also has a special reason to share. This is the first time that Surat's diamonds and jewellery are shining in space,” he said.
Chanchad explained that when sunlight hits the rocket in orbit, the diamonds sparkle brilliantly. Videos shared from space reportedly show the glimmer. The design, inspired by the lotus flower—a symbol of Lord Brahma—was developed over six months by a team of 20 skilled artisans based on precise specifications.
Technical Specifications and Value
The lotus collection comprises 32 pear-cut lab-grown diamonds, with a total weight of 16.95 carats and an estimated value of around Rs 10 lakh. Each diamond is set in gold to resemble blooming lotus petals. The diamonds were mounted on a special aerospace-grade aluminium plate and solidly embedded in gold to withstand the extreme vibrations, atmospheric pressure, and temperature fluctuations during launch and space travel.
Chanchad noted that the design was tailored to meet stringent safety parameters. “It (the lotus collection) consists of 32 pear-shaped diamonds designed as petals of lotus,” he added.
Order and Execution
The firm received the order based on its reputation and capabilities. “Since it was to be sent into space, we together designed and drew its parameters, and decorated it,” Chanchad said. The successful integration of the diamonds into the rocket marks a unique fusion of traditional craftsmanship and modern aerospace innovation.
Skyroot Aerospace's Vikram-1 is India's first privately developed orbital rocket, and the inclusion of Surat's lab-grown diamonds adds a distinctive cultural touch to the milestone. The diamonds are grown in the company's lab in Surat, reinforcing the city's role as a hub for diamond cutting and now space-bound jewellery.
