The coronation of King Charles III is only three weeks away. We are as eager to see what our stylish future monarch the Princess of Wales will be wearing, as we are heartbroken that the Duchess of Sussex will not be attending. We had already predicted which designers she might wear...
But if we’re honest, jewellery is usually our favourite part of a royal ensemble to scrutinise. We love to commemorate the history of their diamond encrusted accessories, often vintage heirlooms with an iconic story behind them and a price tag beyond comprehension (though we must commend both Princess Kate and Meghan Markle for their occasional affordable jewellery choices.)
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Of course, the crown jewels will be the dazzling bijouterie the world is focused on on May 6th. The regalia used during the coronation of the King represent the powers and responsibilities of the monarch. The jaw-dropping, sacred objects were used at the Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II in 1953, and many laid upon her coffin at her funeral on 19th September 2022.
So, how much is the coronation jewellery worth? Experts at luxury British heritage jewellery brand Steven Stone explained exactly how much they think the items are worth, and warning: it will make your eyes water…
"Each piece is extraordinary - from the Sovereign's Scepter with Cross, which contains the £400 million Cullinan I diamond, to the Sovereign's Ring, which features an octagonal sapphire, overlaid with four rectangular-cut and one square-cut ruby that form a cross,” explains lead expert Maxwell Stone.
“Laced with history, it's incredibly difficult to value the Coronation Regalia. I'd estimate it to be worth a staggering £3.5 billion."
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The Sovereign's Scepter with Cross was made in 1661 by Robert Vyner (but has had alterations made since). It will be held in King Charles’ right hand a represents good governance. “It holds the world’s largest diamond, the Cullinan - estimated to be 530 carats, the Cullinan is worth a staggering £400,000,000” the jeweller explained.
Robert Vyner also made the Sovereign's Sceptre with Dove, the Ampuller and St Edwards Crown in 1661. St Edward’s is the most sacred crown of all according to the Royal Family. It is placed on top of the head at the moment of coronation, “Monarchs didn't wear this crown in coronation ceremonies for more than 200 years because it was too heavy”.
© BettmannThe Imperial state crown made by Garrard & Co in 1937, Queen Mary’s Crown also made by Garrard & Co in 1911, the Coronation Spoon which survived Parliament’s destruction of the crown jewels in 1649 and the Sovereign's orb will also be used during King Charles III ceremony.
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