From Queen Mary to Queen Camilla: The History of a Regal Crown
The Crown of Queen Mary, which was made in 1911, is one of the most iconic symbols of the British monarchy. The crown is made of platinum and features more than 2,200 diamonds, including the famous Koh-i-Noor diamond, which was acquired by the British Empire in the mid-19th century. The crown was last worn by Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother, in 1937 and has been on display at the Tower of London ever since. Now, over a century later, the crown will once again be brought out for the coronation of Queen Camilla.
A Look into the History of Queen Mary's Crown
The crown was made for the coronation of King George V and Queen Mary in 1911. The crown was designed by Garrard & Co, the official jeweler of the British monarchy. The crown's design was inspired by the medieval crowns worn by English monarchs in the past. It features four crosses pattée and four fleurs-de-lis, which represent England and France, respectively. The crown also features the famous Koh-i-Noor diamond, which is one of the largest diamonds in the world and is believed to have been mined in India in the 13th century.
The coronation of King George V and Queen Mary was a grand event, and the crown was one of the main attractions of the ceremony. The crown was carried in procession from Buckingham Palace to Westminster Abbey, where it was placed on the altar. After the coronation ceremony, the crown was returned to the Tower of London, where it has remained ever since.
Due to the contested state of the Koh-i-Noor diamond, the decision was made to remove the famous diamond from the crown and replace it instead with gems that belonged to the late Queen Elizabeth II. The removal of the diamond, along with a few small changes to the style and size of the crown, acts as a symbol of King Charles and Queen Camilla’s hope to create a bridge between the royal past and the future.
The Significance of Queen Mary's Crown in Queen Camilla's Coronation
Queen Mary's Crown is an important symbol of the British monarchy's continuity and tradition. The crown has been used in numerous coronation ceremonies throughout the 20th century, and it is a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of the royal jewelers. The crown's design is timeless and elegant, and it remains one of the most recognizable symbols of the British monarchy.
The decision to use Queen Mary's Crown in Queen Camilla's coronation is significant for several reasons. First, it represents a continuation of the British monarchy's long and rich history. Queen Camilla's coronation will mark a new chapter in the monarchy's story, and the use of Queen Mary's Crown is a reminder of the monarchy's past.
Second, the use of Queen Mary's Crown in Queen Camilla's coronation is a tribute to the legacy of Queen Mary herself. Queen Mary was a beloved member of the British royal family and played an important role in the monarchy's history. She was known for her love of art and culture and was a patron of numerous charitable organizations. By using her crown in Queen Camilla's coronation, the British monarchy is honoring Queen Mary's memory and contributions to the royal family.
Third, the use of Queen Mary's Crown in Queen Camilla's coronation is a testament to the durability and beauty of the crown itself. The crown has been in use for over a century and remains as stunning and impressive as ever. The crown's design has stood the test of time and remains one of the most iconic symbols of the British monarchy.
Conclusion
Queen Mary's Crown is an important symbol of the British monarchy's continuity and tradition. The crown is a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of the royal jewelers and a reminder of the long and rich history of the British Isles. The use of Queen Mary's Crown in Queen Camilla's coronation is significant for several reasons. It represents a continuation of the British monarchy's legacy, pays tribute to Queen Mary's memory and contributions, and is a testament to the crown's durability and beauty.