The Crown Jewels have been symbols of the monarchy's power and connection with God for over a thousand years. The Sovereigns that sat on the throne and used these royal items believed wholly that they were anointed by God's own hand - the Divine Right of Kings - to rule their people. Below, the description and ceremony for each: [In Progress] |
| Imperial crown | The Imperial State Crown is worn by the newly anointed King or Queen after the coronation. This should not be confused with St. Edward's Crown, used for the actual crowning of the new sovereign during the ceremony.
The Imperial State Crown contains the Cullinan II diamond in the brow, and weighs about two pounds. Her Majesty wears this at the annual State Opening of Parliament. |
| Coronation Regalia | There are three ceremonial swords used in the coronation: the Great Sword of State, the Sword of Justice, and the Sword of Mercy. They are traditionally carried before the monarch as they enter Westminster Abbey. |
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This is the crown made for the late Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother. This contains one of the most exquisite gems known to man - the legendary Koh-i-noor diamond. It's name literally means "Mountain of Light", said to be a great source of fortune for its female owner, but brings bad luck to a man. The Queen Mum removed the arches of the crown and wore it as a diadem to the coronation of her daughter, Queen Elizabeth II. |
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The Ampulla and anointing spoon |
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Cullinan I, found in the top of the sceptre. |
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St. Edward's Crown |
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The Koh-i-Noor, or "Mountain of Light", diamond found in the late Queen Mother's crown. |
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The orb, the symbol of Christianity. |
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The sceptre, carried by the Queen at the Coronation. |