The period of peak production of the Golconda diamonds was under the Qutb Shahi dynasty (16th century–17th century CE), and the region was also known as the "Golconda Sultanate". The Asaf Jahi dynasty (18th century-19th century CE) was later dominant, and it was also known as the "Nizam of Hyderabad". During these times, the diamond mines were leased out to merchants under the supervision of regional governors. The periods of the leases were recorded in days. Local merchants Shantidas Jhaveri and Khushalchand were legendary diamond traders of the region. Large diamonds (over 1 carat) obtained from the mines were reserved for the rulers under terms of the leases.