After defying expectations, the Crown Jewels have found their way back to the Jewel House. Following an impressive four-year restoration project, generously sponsored by former Crown Jeweller Garrard, a magnificent regal refit has been unveiled at the historic Tower of London.
Prepare to be enthralled as the Tower's Treasury undergoes a triumphant transformation, exposing the captivating stories behind some of the world's most renowned jewels and natural diamonds. Among them is the legendary Koh-I-Noor diamond, which, for the first time since its installation in Queen Alexandra's Crown by Garrard in 1902, is diplomatically excluded from a consort's crown. Also taking the spotlight is the incomparable Cullinan diamond, discovered in South Africa in 1905 and still hailed as the largest diamond ever found. Since its presentation to Edward VII in 1907, the Cullinan diamond has played a pivotal role in every Coronation since.
Immerse yourself in the rich history of the royal regalia as the exhibition takes you on a deep dive into its intricate details. The first room, aptly named 'Monarch,' showcases the time-honored tradition of adapting previous crowns and resetting historic diamonds and jewels within new frames for each new king or queen. Experience a first-of-its-kind glimpse at the frames of the State Crowns created for George I, George IV, and Queen Victoria. You can't help but be awestruck by the sheer grandeur of George IV's Crown, which witnessed possibly the most extravagant coronation of all in 1821. Another captivating addition is the inclusion of the exquisite but somewhat sorrowfully named "Unnamed Sapphire," set in Queen Victoria's State Crown during her coronation in 1838.
Step into the realm of origins as the exhibition unravels the intriguing provenances of two of the world's most famous diamonds—the Koh-I-Noor and the Cullinan. Leave behind cloak-and-dagger tales as a video presentation divulges the East India Company's acquisition of the Koh-I-Noor from the young Maharajah Duleep Singh, ultimately leading to its presentation to Queen Victoria. Witness the original Mughal cut of the colossal diamond, set in an exquisitely enameled armlet, as it appeared before Prince Albert recut it to enhance its sparkle and conform to Western tastes. The exhibition also showcases the legendary Cullinan diamond, fought over for centuries, now magnificently set in the Queen Mother's Crown.
Explore the remarkable journey of the Cullinan diamond, from its discovery in South Africa to its meticulous cutting process. Simulated replicas provide a tangible sense of the original diamond's monumental size before it was transformed into nine smaller diamonds. Marvel at the hammer and knife used in the cutting process, both on display. Five of the resulting diamonds, originally set by Garrard, were used during the coronation. Among them, the largest (503 carats) now adorns the Sceptre held by King Charles III, the second graces the Imperial State Crown worn during the procession, and three others enhance Queen Mary's Crown, which Queen Camilla proudly wore at the coronation.
Embark on a historical journey through the 'Guardians' section, where the uniform of a warden of the Crown Jewels, representing the 10 Queen's Own Gurkha Logistic Regiment, catches your eye. Move on to 'Procession,' where sweeping clips from previous coronations set against a captivating backdrop overwhelm you with the grandeur of the pageantry, accompanied by recent music you may recognize. Witness the regalia used during the Westminster ceremony, including ten Ceremonial Maces carried by the Serjeants at Arms, who have historically served as ceremonial royal bodyguards. Discover the significance of the Coronation Spoon, the sole remaining item from the original medieval jewels destroyed by Oliver Cromwell in 1649. Also on display is a Commonwealth-era coin, created from the melted-down gold of those ancient treasures.
As you venture into the Treasury, prepare to be amazed by the addition of to-scale replicas, allowing tactile exploration and enhancing the experience for visually impaired visitors. Marvel at the replicas of the Cullinan I diamond from the Sovereign's Sceptre with Cross, St Edward's Crown, and Queen Mary II's Orb.
Among the new additions, one particular gem stands out—the exquisite 'Queen Victoria's Small Diamond Crown.' Crafted by Garrard in 1870, this delicate silver crown boasts an astonishing 1,187 diamonds. Queen Victoria commissioned it to be worn above her 'widow's cap' for the State Opening of Parliament in 1871. Having secluded herself in mourning after the death of her beloved husband, Prince Albert, in 1861, Queen Victoria exclusively wore black dresses and white jewels—diamonds and pearls set in silver—for nearly four decades. This remarkable and emotionally charged piece of jewelry, graciously lent for the exhibition by King Charles from the Royal Collection, offers a privileged glimpse into majestic splendor.
Charles Farris, Public Historian for the History of the Monarchy at Historic Royal Palaces, shares his insights on the Jewel House transformation, emphasizing how it presents the rich history of the Crown Jewels with unprecedented depth and detail. With the first Coronation in 70 years taking place in 2023, there has never been a better time to visit and explore the jewels, gaining a profound appreciation for these awe-inspiring objects in person.
Suzanne Martinez of Lang Antiques in San Francisco highlights the timeless allure of the Crown Jewels, capturing the imaginations of vintage jewelry lovers across the United States. Since there is no equivalent in American history, visitors from the USA will undoubtedly be thrilled to experience the new exhibition and immerse themselves in its unparalleled splendor.
With millions of visitors annually, the enduring fascination and allure of monarchy and natural diamonds are palpable. The Crown Jewels continue to captivate and overwhelm audiences today, showcasing the majesty and mystery that surround them. Whether revisiting or experiencing it for the first time, the exhibition promises an unforgettable spectacle to be savored and cherished.
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