The British Crown Jewels, a collection of opulent items steeped in history housed at the Tower of London, have fascinated people worldwide for centuries. These precious artifacts include coronation regalia such as crowns, sceptres, orbs, and other ceremonial objects.
The Crown Jewels are among the most famous symbols of the British monarchy and represent the continuity of the royal family. Learn about the collection’s value, including the jewels and precious metals used in their construction.
The Most Iconic Pieces of the Crown Jewels Collection
The British Crown Jewels are made of precious metals, gemstones, and other elements like ermine fur. They are among the most well-known treasures of the United Kingdom and cornerstones of British culture.
Some of the most recognizable pieces in the collection include the Imperial State Crown, the Sovereign’s Sceptre with Cross, the Sovereign’s Orb, St. Edward’s Crown, and the Cullinan I and II diamonds.
The Imperial State Crown
The Imperial State Crown is one of the most well-known artifacts in the Crown Jewels. Created in 1937 for the coronation of King George VI, it is the crown typically worn by the reigning monarch, following the coronation and at the State Opening of Parliament.
This stunning piece weighs over 2.3 lbs. and features over 2,868 diamonds, 17 sapphires, 11 emeralds, and 269 pearls. The mounted gems include four historical pieces: the Cullinan II diamond, the Stuart Sapphire, St. Edward’s Sapphire, and the Black Prince’s Ruby.
Although the Imperial State Crown has never been officially appraised, experts estimate its total value ranges between 3.6 to 6.1 billion USD.
The Sovereign’s Sceptre with Cross
The Sovereign’s Sceptre with Cross, dates to 1661 and symbolizes the monarch’s temporal authority. It was redesigned in 1910 to incorporate the impressive Cullinan I diamond, also known as the Great Star of Africa.
The Cullinan I, weighing 530.2 carats, is the largest clear-cut diamond in the world and one of the most valuable elements of the Sovereign’s Sceptre, with an estimated value of $430 million.
The Sovereign’s Orb
The Sovereign’s Orb is a hollow gold sphere created in 1661 for the coronation of King Charles II. It is a symbol of the monarch’s role as the defender of the Christian faith. The orb is adorned with over 600 precious stones, including 365 diamonds, 9 emeralds, 9 sapphires, 18 rubies, an amethyst, and 375 pearls.
The St. Edward’s Crown
The St. Edward’s Crown is the centerpiece of the British Crown Jewels and the most sacred item in the collection. It is named after St. Edward the Confessor, a patron saint of England, and has been used in the coronation of nearly every British monarch since the Restoration.
This magnificent crown weighs approximately 4.9 lbs. and is adorned with 444 precious and semi-precious stones, including 12 rubies, 6 sapphires, 37 white topazes, 27 tourmalines, 2 jargoons, a spinel, a garnet, and a carbuncle.
The Cullinan Diamond and the Cullinan I and II
The original Cullinan Diamond, discovered in 1905 in South Africa, is the largest rough diamond ever found and had an impressive rough weight of 3,106 carats. The diamond was later cut into 9 major stones and 96 smaller stones.
The two largest stones are the Cullinan I and Cullinan II, also known as the Great Star of Africa and the Second Star of Africa. The former is set in the Sovereign’s Sceptre with Cross, while the latter is set in the Imperial State Crown.
How the British Crown Jewels’ Worth is Determined
It is possible to assess the value of individual pieces within the collection according to the market value of the precious metals and gems. However, the British Crown Jewels are considered priceless due to their historical significance and cultural heritage.
According to Reader’s Digest, the entire collection’s worth is estimated to be anywhere between $1.2 billion and $5.8 billion.
Invest in Precious Metals
Although the Crown Jewels represent an extraordinary collection of historical and cultural significance, their value is not only symbolic. The stunning assortment of precious metals and gemstones used in crafting these treasures remind us of the enduring worth of precious gems.
Investing in precious metals like gold, silver, or platinum, and gemstones like diamonds is a rewarding long-term investment strategy. It is also an excellent safeguard against inflation and economic uncertainties.
If you are ready to invest in precious metals and gemstones, contact AU Precious Metals today. Our helpful associates will discuss your investment options and help you secure your wealth with these timeless treasures.
