This dagger hilt is made of white nephrite jade. It is engraved in delicate natural floral motifs with geometric symmetry, enriched with the shining inlay of gold. Geometric arabesque design is widely employed on the decoration of Mughal manuscripts, vessels and weapons. 

Jade was appreciated by Mughal courts for its tough compactness, durability and the quality of translucence. Jade is expertly carved by Mughal craftsmen into a variety of elegantly shaped, luxurious jewellery, vessels and hilts of weapons for the court from the seventeenth century.