In June 2023, during a state visit to the United States, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi presented First Lady Jill Biden with a 7.5-carat lab-grown green diamond. This eco-friendly gem, produced in Surat, Gujarat, was certified by the Gemological Institute of India (IGI). ([hindustantimes.com](https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/pm-modi-gifts-7-5-carat-green-diamond-to-us-first-lady-jill-biden-where-was-it-made-101687437685516-amp.html?utm_source=openai))
The diamond was encased in a Kashmiri Papier mâché box, known as kar-e-kalamdani, highlighting India’s rich craftsmanship. ([hindustantimes.com](https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/pm-modi-gifts-7-5-carat-green-diamond-to-us-first-lady-jill-biden-where-was-it-made-101687437685516-amp.html?utm_source=openai))
In her memoir, “View from the East Wing: A Memoir,” Jill Biden recounted the gift’s presentation. She noted that Prime Minister Modi mentioned the diamond was handmade in his hometown for $2,500 and even provided the bill of sale. Intrigued, she considered purchasing it. However, the State Department appraised the diamond at $20,000, leading her to reconsider. Biden described the diamond as “gorgeous.” ([hindustantimes.com](https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/it-was-gorgeous-ex-us-first-lady-jill-biden-wanted-to-buy-the-diamond-gifted-by-pm-modi-in-2023-101780880121071.html?utm_source=openai))
Under U.S. ethics regulations, gifts received by the president and first lady during official engagements are considered federal property. While recipients can purchase such gifts at their appraised market value, the high valuation of the diamond made this option unfeasible for Biden. ([hindustantimes.com](https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/it-was-gorgeous-ex-us-first-lady-jill-biden-wanted-to-buy-the-diamond-gifted-by-pm-modi-in-2023-101780880121071.html?utm_source=openai))
Despite not acquiring the diamond, Biden had it set into a ring, which she wore during official events. Upon leaving office, the ring was returned to government custody, along with other presidential gifts, many of which are stored or destroyed as per protocol. ([hindustantimes.com](https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/it-was-gorgeous-ex-us-first-lady-jill-biden-wanted-to-buy-the-diamond-gifted-by-pm-modi-in-2023-101780880121071.html?utm_source=openai))
This exchange underscores the intricate protocols governing diplomatic gifts and the cultural significance of such gestures. It also highlights the challenges faced by recipients in adhering to ethical standards while appreciating the thoughtfulness behind the gifts.
The 2023 state visit was marked by several notable exchanges. In addition to the diamond, Prime Minister Modi presented President Joe Biden with a copy of the first edition of “The Ten Principal Upanishads,” a special sandalwood box, and a Diya (oil lamp) handcrafted by a fifth-generation silversmith family from Kolkata. ([hindustantimes.com](https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/pm-modi-in-us-pm-modi-us-state-visit-joe-biden-to-present-pm-modi-with-antique-20th-century-american-book-galley-101687395715861-amp.html?utm_source=openai))
These gifts reflect the deep cultural ties and mutual respect between the two nations, emphasizing the importance of such diplomatic exchanges in strengthening bilateral relations.
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