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Taj Mahal, India
A multifaceted memorial
The Mughal emperor Shah Jahan meant for the Taj Mahal to reflect heaven on Earth, in memory of his late wife Mumtaz Mahal. And in at least one sense he succeeded. The marble mausoleum is inlaid with various gemstones gathered from across Asia, so the shifting light of day casts it in a variety of tones. The iridescent effect is even more pronounced when the sky itself is a layer cake of colour – a condition not uncommon during Agra's balmy sunsets.
A multifaceted memorial
The Mughal emperor Shah Jahan meant for the Taj Mahal to reflect heaven on Earth, in memory of his late wife Mumtaz Mahal. And in at least one sense he succeeded. The marble mausoleum is inlaid with various gemstones gathered from across Asia, so the shifting light of day casts it in a variety of tones. The iridescent effect is even more pronounced when the sky itself is a layer cake of colour – a condition not uncommon during Agra's balmy sunsets.
Inlaid gems give an iridescent effect to the Taj Mahal's exquisite exterior.
© Peter Zelei Images / Moment / Getty Images 2026-09-11 08:45:51 :