Royal Crowns and Gemstones: What Makes Them So Majestic?

Gemstones have been a part of royal crowns and regalia. From diamonds to ruby stone, these sparkling gemstones hold great significance and tell stories that have travelled through the centuries. Kings and queens wore them for luck, protection, and to radiate powerful energy around them. Let's explore the gemstones that have adorned these royal crowns and regalia.   

List of 7 Royal Crowns 

The “7 Royal Crowns” refers to significant crowns that have been a part of the British Monarchy. The speciality of these crowns was their historical value, the stories they carry for centuries, and most importantly, the rare gemstones. These gems are not only beautiful, but also the largest of all, set in crowns that represent national heritage. Let's talk about them one by one.   

1. St. Edward’s Crown: Power of Rubies, Grace of Sapphires

Highlighted Points of British Crown Jewels-St. Edward’s Crown

• Set in Gold 
• Displays 400 Precious and semi-precious gemstones 
• Total Weight of the Crown: 2.3 Kg
• Worn in specific moments and symbolizes historical roots 

Gemstones on St. Edward’s Crown

Rubies are a part of this beautiful crown. This red gemstone, with its magnificent red hue, is noticeable in almost all Crown British Jewels. Its popularity stems from its significance. Ruby symbolizes power, passion, and leadership. It is the gemstone of courage, trusted to keep the monarch strong in both mind and spirit.  

Sapphires, amethyst stone, and aquamarines also formed the central part of this crown, adding to its overall splendour. 

Read More: Gemstones in Royal Families Worldwide

2. Imperial State Crown: A Dazzling Mix of Diamonds, Sapphires, and Emeralds

Highlighted Points of Imperial State Crown

• Set in gold 
• Displays  2,868 diamonds,17 sapphires, 11 emerald stones , and 269 pearls. 
• This Crown was referred to as the Crown of the State 
• Symbolises sovereignty, authority, and tradition 

Gemstones on  Imperial State Crown

The Imperial State Crown is one of the most symbolic royal crowns, as it reflects authority. Queen Elizabeth has worn this crown on several occasions; the opening of State Parliament is one of these. The historic gemstones mounted on this crown not only created a visual aesthetic of the time but also carried deep meaning and powerful stories from centuries past.   

The front of the crown features the largest diamond, “Cullinian II,” and a blue sapphire stone on the back. The Queen Elizabeth Crown diamond symbolizes peace and goodwill. It reflects how gemstones have long been gifted to mend relations, honour loyalty, and strengthen bonds between nations. 

3. Crown of Saint Wenceslas: Emerald and Spinels for Prosperity 

Highlighted Points of the Crown of Saint Wenceslas

• Gold Construction 
• 91 Precious Stones and 21 Pearls 
• Unique Design that catches attention 
• Symbol of Royal Authority 

Gemstones on  Imperial State Crown

All precious stones were a part of this crown. Emeralds were for life and good health. Spinels symbolised bravery. It’s less “bling” and more “holy power.”  

4. Queen Victoria’s Small Diamond Crown: Diamonds Stating Legacy 

Highlighted Points of Queen Victoria’s Small Diamond Crown

• Lightweight Design 
• Features 1,187 diamonds 
• Historical Significance passed on to Queen Alexandra 
• Reflected her identity 

Gemstones on Queen Victoria’s Small Diamond Crown

Though regarded as a mourning piece, the Queen wore this crown for small occasions. Lightweight in construction, the crown featured alternate rows of diamonds and pearls. The diamonds reflected the Queen’s enduring power, and the pearl stone expressed dignity, wisdom, and gentle authority. 

5. State Crown of George I

Highlighted Points of the State Crown of George I

• Resembles  Imperial State Crown
• Features rubies, sapphires, aquamarine stone, and pearls 
• Crafted for King George I
• Modified and used by William IV

Gemstones on the State Crown of George I

The bright red rubies showed military strength. Emerald stone symbolised prosperity and growth for the kingdom. Sapphires gave the image of a ruler guided by heaven. Diamonds made the whole crown shine like fire. Each stone was placed to show that the king ruled by wisdom, courage, and divine support.  

6. Crown Jewels Orb: Gemstones Defining Sovereignty 

Highlighted Points of the Crown Jewels Orb

• Signifies the Christian world and the Monarch Power 
• Displays diamonds, emeralds, rubies, sapphires, and pearls 
• Noticeable Part of Iconic Gemstone Thefts in History
• Represents Power and Responsibilities 

Gemstones on the Crown Jewels Orb

Besides the royal crowns, objects like the orb are also a part of the coronation. The construction of the orb is a golden globe mounted with a cross. It represents the divine power that holds and blesses the monarchy.   

The globe is adorned with various gemstones, including amethyst, diamonds, pearls, and emeralds. The cross features an oval-shaped blue sapphire stone in the center. The sapphire in the center accurately reflects the long-held belief that blue sapphire is a heavenly stone. The Bible often states that blue sapphire is associated with divine power. 

Read More: Blue Sapphires in History: Legends and Myths Surrounding the Gem

7. The Sovereign's Sceptre with the Cross: Gemstones Representing Supreme Power 

Highlighted Points of Sovereign's Sceptre with the Cross

• Gold Rod 
• Displays Cullinan diamond, rubies, emeralds, sapphires, and amethyst 
• Sceptre signifies equity and mercy, and the Cross signifies spiritual authority 
• Part of the Crown Jewels 

Gemstones on The Sovereign's Sceptre with the Cross

It features the largest colorless Cullinan diamond. In addition, it features rubies, sapphires, and emeralds. These gemstones symbolize the authority of the royal family and the strong relations between the two countries. Amethyst on the cross represents the Christian world and the rule of monarchs. Rubies, emeralds, and spinels symbolize royal authority and importance.   

We have seen that the royal regalia are adorned with numerous rare and precious gemstones, signifying their power and decorative appeal. These ornaments are proof that gemstones have always held the power and significance for the royals.