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Rare and precious gemstones can either be found in a museum or among the treasures of royal jewelry. From 100 carat sapphire stone to a rare pink diamond, you get to see the best of earth’s creation among the vault of royals. Here is a list of famous royal jewelry that showcased the beauty of gemstones at its best.
The Cullinan diamond made history with its size. Discovered in South Africa in 1905 this is the largest diamond that weighed 3,106 carats initially. It belonged to Sir Thomas Cullinan, the owner of Premier Mine where it was found and hence named after him. Once it was believed that to enhance political relationship with the British, the Transvaal government gifted Cullinan diamond to King Edward VII.
The beauty of this gemstone was stunning. The blue shine it reflected sparkled like heaven making it an inevitable choice for royal gemstone.
The rough Cullinan diamond was then cut into several versions to be a part of wide royal jewelry.
The two largest stones are incorporated in the British Crown Jewels while seven other smaller diamonds became a part of royal jewelry. Referred to as the Great Star of Africa the pear shaped diamond weighs 530.2 carat.
It is set in the Sovereign’s Sceptre with Cross. The other largest diamond weighing 317.4 carats is set in the Imperial Crown. The seven other royal gemstones were set in Cullinan Blue Diamond Necklace inherited by Queen Elizabeth II.
The much talked about however one of the cursed gemstones is The Koh-i-Noor Diamond. It was believed that this natural diamond was found in the Golconda mines in India. Though the origin of this 186 carat diamond is still uncertain, its beauty reflects the timeless wonders of nature. For many it appeared to be a “piece of glass”, crystal clean categorising it as a rare find.
It was believed that that Koh-i-Noor diamond was only worn by women and not by men as it brought curse to them. This was the most costliest gemstone to own and was regarded as a symbol of prestige and wealth by the British.
It became a part of the Crown Jewels honoring the crowns of Queen Alexandria, Queen Mary and the Queen Mother respectively.
Today the Koh-i-Noor diamond is displayed in the Jewel House at the Tower of London.
The beauty of pearl gemstone has been evident throughout history. The most famous example is Marie Antoinette’s Pearl Necklace. Marie Antoinette had a great admiration for pearls. Her jewelry collection included natural pearls, diamonds and other precious gemstones.
One of the significant jewelry that was further passed onto the next generation was her pearl necklace. The necklace showcased a number of pearls, all natural and not cultured. Besides the layered look the star of the jewelry was the large drop shaped natural pearl stone.
Once believed to be the most loved treasure of the Queen this pearl necklace was sold at a breathtaking price in 2018. Learn More: Why Pearl Jewelry Is the Secret Beauty Weapon of Every Woman
Another classy gemstone that is admired by the royal families even today is emerald stone. The Delhi Durbar emerald necklace is a great example of the significance of gemstones in celebrating prestigious occasions.
Created by Garrard & Co in 1911 this necklace marked the coronation of King George V and Queen Mary as Emperor and Empress of India. It featured nine emerald stones and 8.8 carat diamonds arranged alternatively to form a necklace.
This gemstone necklace once termed as the symbol of imperial power was passed on to generations. It was later adorned by Diana, The Princess of Wales.
The timeless aura of emeralds ensures they remain cherished heirlooms, passed down through generations as symbols of elegance and legacy.
Also Read our blog: Why Heirloom Jewelry is Significant in Indian Weddings
Gemstones in royal families not only signified power and prestige but they were also considered symbols of love. Diamonds were chosen as a sentimental gift by Prince Philip for her future wife Elizabeth. Universally accepted diamonds signify love and commitment, thus making them till today one of the desired gemstones for engagement rings.
Queen Elizabeth II’s Engagement Ring featured a 3 carat round diamond in the center surrounded by ten accent diamonds. This became one of the favourite royal jewelry of the Queen. She flaunted on almost every public appearance highlighting that like diamonds, love never fades and memories remain eternal.
If gemstones are linked to cultural heritage, the Imperial Crown of Russia is a perfect example. A coronation symbol, this crown featured thousands of natural pearls, diamonds and a large red spinel.
Still cherishing the cultural heritage and rich history of Russia, this crown is currently on display in the State Diamond Fund at the Kremlin Armoury in Moscow.
Love has no boundaries and showing it in a unique way is one of the best ways one can express it. Breaking the traditional diamond rule, Diana’s blue sapphire engagement ring set an example of style may change but love remains the same.
The iconic Diana’s engagement ring featured a 12 carat Ceylon blue sapphire stone at a centerpiece. The stunning blue color of the stone was complemented with 14 brilliant round diamonds. Read More: A World of Royal Romance Forever – Princess Diana Ring
Though the ring design broke the royal tradition, the beauty of the stone remains timeless. It is a cherished gemstone now worn by her daughter in law, Kate Middleton.
To conclude, gemstones in royal families worldwide are more than mere adornments. Natural gemstones in royal jewelry are a testament of cultural heritage, prestige, power and love. They hold a legacy that is carried to future generations as heirlooms.
Gemstones are timeless treasures, making them not only symbols of power and wealth but also a wise investment for those who value history and beauty. If you are an admirer of the same, browse our vast gemstone collection at Navratan.
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