The Legacy of Royal Family Jewels: From Queen Victoria to Queen Elizabeth II
Throughout history, the British Royal Family has been known for its dazzling collection of jewels, representing not only wealth but also a rich legacy of heritage, power, and personal stories. From Queen Victoria’s iconic sapphire brooch to the jewels worn by Queen Elizabeth II, these sparkling treasures have adorned some of the most famous royal figures in the world. Each piece carries with it centuries of history, unique craftsmanship, and emotional significance, making them more than just accessories—they are symbols of British monarchy, passed down through generations.
In this article, we’ll explore the fascinating history of royal family jewels, focusing on how these iconic pieces have been worn, inherited, and celebrated. For more information about specific royal family jewels, you can read the full guide on A History of Royal Family Jewels: From Queen Elizabeth to Meghan Markle.
Queen Victoria’s Sapphire Brooch: A Symbol of Love
One of the most iconic pieces in the royal collection is Queen Victoria’s Sapphire Brooch, given to her by Prince Albert on the eve of their wedding in 1840. The large oval sapphire, surrounded by diamonds, was a personal favorite of Queen Victoria and became a symbol of her love for her husband. She cherished the brooch and wore it frequently throughout her reign.
This brooch has since been passed down through generations and is now famously worn by Queen Elizabeth II, often seen sparkling on her coat during public appearances. It’s a timeless piece that connects the modern-day royals with the love story of Victoria and Albert, making it a significant part of the royal jewel legacy.
The Crown Jewels: A Rich History of Power and Tradition
No discussion of royal family jewels would be complete without mentioning the Crown Jewels. Held in trust by the monarch for the nation, the Crown Jewels are not owned personally by any member of the royal family but are worn during significant state occasions, such as coronations and the State Opening of Parliament.
The Imperial State Crown, adorned with over 3,000 gems, including the famous Cullinan II Diamond, is one of the most recognizable pieces in the collection. It represents centuries of British history and tradition. This crown has seen many of the most important moments in the monarchy, including the coronations of both Queen Elizabeth II and her father, King George VI.
Another striking piece is the St. Edward's Crown, the centerpiece of the coronation ceremony. Made in 1661 for the coronation of Charles II, this solid gold crown has been used in every coronation since. Weighing nearly five pounds and encrusted with precious stones, it’s a symbol of the sovereign's authority and the continuity of the monarchy.
Queen Mary’s Diamond Bandeau Tiara: A Royal Wedding Favorite
One of the most stunning and versatile pieces in the royal collection is Queen Mary’s Diamond Bandeau Tiara, which gained global attention when worn by Meghan Markle on her wedding day in 2018. The tiara was originally crafted for Queen Mary in 1932, with the central brooch dating back to 1893.
This elegant tiara is made of diamonds set in platinum and features a detachable brooch, which can be worn separately. Meghan Markle’s decision to wear this tiara was seen as a nod to tradition while still embracing a modern, minimalist style. The tiara’s delicate design and sparkling diamonds made it the perfect complement to her elegant bridal look.
The Queen’s Personal Favorites: The Girls of Great Britain and Ireland Tiara
One of Queen Elizabeth II’s most beloved tiaras is the Girls of Great Britain and Ireland Tiara, a gift from Queen Mary in 1947 as a wedding present. This iconic tiara, often referred to as “Granny’s Tiara,” is frequently worn by the Queen at formal events and state banquets.
The tiara’s unique design, featuring festoon and scroll motifs, makes it one of the most recognizable pieces in the royal collection. It was originally set with pearls, but Queen Mary replaced them with diamonds to give the tiara more sparkle. Its lightness and comfort have made it a favorite of Queen Elizabeth, and it has become a signature piece of her royal wardrobe.
The Cartier Halo Tiara: A Symbol of New Beginnings
The Cartier Halo Tiara has become synonymous with modern royal weddings, having been worn by Kate Middleton, now the Duchess of Cambridge, on her wedding day to Prince William in 2011. This stunning tiara was originally commissioned by King George VI in 1936 for his wife, Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother.
The tiara features a band of scrolls set with 739 brilliant-cut diamonds and 149 baton diamonds. It was passed down to Queen Elizabeth II, who then loaned it to her granddaughter-in-law, Kate, for her wedding day. The Cartier Halo Tiara perfectly complemented Kate’s simple, yet elegant bridal style, making it a moment to remember for royal jewelry enthusiasts.
The Cullinan Diamond: The World’s Largest Gemstone
One of the most famous gemstones in the world, the Cullinan Diamond, was discovered in South Africa in 1905 and remains the largest gem-quality rough diamond ever found. Weighing a staggering 3,106 carats in its original form, the diamond was gifted to King Edward VII as a gesture of goodwill from the South African government.
The diamond was later cut into nine major stones and 96 smaller stones, many of which now reside in the Crown Jewels. The largest of these stones, the Cullinan I (also known as the Great Star of Africa), is set in the Sovereign’s Sceptre with Cross, while the Cullinan II is set in the Imperial State Crown.
These diamonds are some of the most valuable and historically significant pieces in the royal collection, symbolizing the British Empire’s global reach and its connections to its former colonies.
The royal family’s jewelry collection is more than just a display of wealth and luxury—it’s a living testament to the history, tradition, and personal stories of the British monarchy. From Queen Victoria’s sapphire brooch to the diamonds of the Crown Jewels, each piece carries a unique story that reflects the legacy of the British royal family. These jewels continue to captivate the world with their timeless beauty, and they will undoubtedly be passed down through generations to come, remaining a vital part of royal tradition.