The Rich History and Multitude of Crowns in British Royalty
The British monarchy is known for its stunning and intricate crown jewels, each with its own unique history and significance. These crowns are not only symbols of the throne but are also subject to strict rules and traditions. In this article, we’ll explore the various crowns used by the British monarchs and the significance of each.
Understanding the Different Crowns
There are several types of crowns held by the British monarchy, each with a specific purpose and historical importance. The primary crowns held by the British royal family are the St Edwards Crown and the Imperial State Crown. Additionally, there are tiaras and other headpieces that complement the crowns for formal occasions.
The St Edwards Crown
The St Edwards Crown, also known as the Coronation Crown, is used exclusively during the coronation ceremony. This crown is not worn again after the coronation and is kept securely in the Jewel House at the Tower of London for safekeeping. The St Edwards Crown is made of gold and gemstones, and it serves as a powerful symbol of authority and legitimacy during the ceremony of the monarch’s enthronement.
The Imperial State Crown
The Imperial State Crown is the crown typically worn by the monarch for formal functions and state ceremonies. After the coronation, it is worn for important events such as the State Opening of Parliament and other official engagements. This crown is significantly more elaborate than the St Edwards Crown and is known for its extensive use of diamonds, sapphires, and other precious gemstones. The current version of the Imperial State Crown has been updated several times, with the latest version being presented to Queen Elizabeth II in 1953.
The State Diadem
The State Diadem, originally commissioned for the Prince Regent (later George IV), is a unique piece of jewelry. It was designed for his coronation and was only worn on that occasion. The State Diadem, which can also be seen as a circlet, was worn by Queen Elizabeth II at her own coronation and is now often displayed during official events. It’s worth noting that the State Diadem has not been worn since 1953 because the Queen mostly uses the Imperial State Crown for these events.
Other Crown Jewels and Tiaras
While the St Edwards Crown and the Imperial State Crown are the most prominent, there are numerous other pieces of headgear and jewels in the royal collection. A significant number of tiaras are part of this collection, each with its own history and significance. Tiaras are often loaned by the Queen to other members of the royal family for special occasions, allowing for a sense of continuity and versatility in the use of these jewels.
Examples of Crown Jewels
The Queen Consorts, such as Queen Alexandra, Queen Mary, Queen Elizabeth (George VI’s wife), and Queen Victoria, each had their own personal crowns and tiaras. Besides these personal pieces, there are historical tiaras, such as the Aztec Emerald Coronet, which is said to have been a gift from Queen Victoria to her daughter, Princess Louise, Duchess of Argyll. This emerald tiara was then passed down to her granddaughter, the Duchess of Fife, who wore it at the Queen’s Coronation in 1953.
Other tiaras and jewels, like the Emerald Parure, were created for specific events or bequeathed to family members. The Emerald Parure, designed by Prince Albert for Queen Victoria, was given to Princess Louise and eventually passed through the generations to the 3rd Duchess of Fife, who wore it during the Queen’s coronation. This piece is currently on loan and displayed at the Victoria and Albert Museum, reflecting its rich history and the significance it holds within the royal family.
Conclusion
As we can see, the British royal family holds a wealth of crown jewels that serve various purposes and hold deep historical significance. From the St Edwards Crown, used exclusively for the coronation ceremony, to the State Diadem, which was worn once but remains an important symbol, the royal crowns and headpieces reflect the rich traditions and intricate rules governing the use of these regal treasures. Understanding the different types of crowns and their purposes helps us appreciate the depth and complexity of the British monarchy’s ceremonial customs.