10 Facts You Didn't Know About The British Crown Jewels
It is made of solid gold and was made especially for the coronation of King Charles II in 1661.
St. Edward’s Crown
10
It was worn by Queen Elizabeth II as she left Westminster Abbey after her coronation.
Imperial State Crown
09
Since the 14th century, the queens consort have worn diadems or circlets at the coronations of their husbands.
08
Consort Crowns
It holds the holy oil with which God anoints the king or queen at the coronation.
Ampulla & Coronation Spoon
07
Since 1831, when William IV became coronation, the sovereign's ring has been used. The ring has sapphires, rubies, and 14 diamonds.
Ring
06
The Orb is a hollow gold ball made for Charles II's coronation. It contains 375 pearls, 365 diamonds, 18 rubies, 9 emeralds, 9 sapphires, 1 amethyst, & 1 piece of glass.
The Sovereign’s Orb
05
King George V added the Cullinan I diamond (530.2 carats) to the Sovereign's Scepter with Cross in 1910.
Scepter And Rod
04
The jewels were put in a biscuit tin and hidden in a secret vault in the castle's basement.
Hidden Jewels
03
The crown jewels may be the focus of the most important ceremonies in the UK, but they have also been involved in some farcical situations.
Tarnished Gold
02
The queen was amazed by the beautiful jewels and said that they were not exactly comfortable to wear.