The Imperial State Crown of Great Britain is an important piece of the royal regalia worn by the monarch during the State Opening of Parliament. It is one of the most recognizable symbols of the British monarchy and has a rich history dating back over 300 years.
The Early Years
The first crown to be used in England was the Tudor Crown, which was made in 1485 for the coronation of Henry VII. The crown was made of gold and set with precious stones. It was destroyed during the English Civil War in the mid-17th century.
In 1660, a new crown was commissioned for the coronation of Charles II. This crown was also made of gold and set with precious stones, but it was destroyed in a fire at the Tower of London in 1841.
The Creation of the Imperial State Crown
The Imperial State Crown was created in 1838 for the coronation of Queen Victoria. It was designed by the jeweler Rundell, Bridge, and Rundell, and it took them nearly a year to create. The crown is made of gold and set with 2,901 precious stones, including diamonds, emeralds, sapphires, and rubies.
The Imperial State Crown features several famous stones, including the Cullinan II diamond, which is the second largest diamond in the world. It also has the Stuart Sapphire, which is a 104-carat blue sapphire that was once owned by the Stuart family.
Changes and Additions
Over the years, the Imperial State Crown has undergone several changes and additions. In 1902, the crown was altered to accommodate the Cullinan III and IV diamonds, which were added to the front of the crown. In 1911, a new arch was added to the crown to support the large sapphire at the top.
During World War II, the crown was kept safe in a secret location and later used at the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II in 1953. At this time, the crown was fitted with a new frame to make it more comfortable for the Queen to wear.
Symbolism and Significance
The Imperial State Crown is a symbol of the British monarchy and is used during important state occasions. It is also a symbol of the power and wealth of the British Empire, which at its height covered a quarter of the world's land area.
The crown is also a symbol of the Christian faith, with its cross and other religious symbols. It represents the union of England, Scotland, Ireland, and Wales, and the power of the monarch to rule over all four countries.
The Imperial State Crown Today
The Imperial State Crown is kept at the Tower of London and is on display for visitors to see. The crown is only worn by the monarch during the State Opening of Parliament, and it is carefully guarded by the Yeoman Warders of the Tower of London.
The Imperial State Crown remains an important symbol of the British monarchy and the country's rich history. It is a reminder of the power and prestige of the British Empire and the role of the monarch as the head of state.
Related video of The History of Britain's Imperial State Crown
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