On this day in 1953, the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II took place in Westminster Abbey. The first such ceremony to be televised, it gave her subjects the rare opportunity to see their new monarch resplendent in the robes and jewels of state — including the impressive Coronation Necklace and Earrings.
Continue reading “The Coronation Necklace and Earrings”
While tickets to the V&A’s Cartier exhibition are currently harder to get hold of than one of Mr Wonka’s golden tickets, thankfully it isn’t the only place in town to indulge your love of all things sparkly. Earlier this month I was lucky enough to visit Kensington Palace, and on display there are several tiaras, two of which are probably in my top ten – yes, I have a top ten tiaras, no judgement please! There was also a third tiara that, though reminiscent in style of other well-known pieces, was completely new to me.
Continue reading “Princess Louise’s Diamond Necklace Tiara”
When she emerged from that Rolls-Royce Phantom VI at the Abbey’s West Door on 29th April 2011, Kate Middleton wasn’t just wearing a beautiful custom Alexander McQueen dress — she was also showcasing a stunning tiara that hadn’t been seen in public for almost 40 years.
Continue reading “The Cartier Halo Tiara: A Royal Legacy”
Of all the stunning tiaras in the royal vault, there was one which Queen Elizabeth II favoured above all the others. The Vladimir Tiara is one of the most iconic and fascinating pieces of royal jewellery, with a storied history that spans the Russian Imperial family and the British monarchy.
Continue reading “A Royal Favourite: The Vladimir Tiara”
When she entered Westminster Abbey on 23rd July, 1986, Sarah Ferguson had a crown of gardenias perched on her flame-coloured locks – reportedly chosen as they were Prince Andrew’s favourite flower. When she emerged an hour later, the flowers were gone, removed shortly after the register was signed, and a brand-new tiara was unveiled. It marked the moment Sarah’s life as a ‘commoner’ was left behind, and she officially became of a member of the British royal family.
Continue reading “Tiara Tuesday – The York Tiara”
Not quite a tiara, I know! But probably the most well known ‘sparkler’ in the royal collection, and thoroughly worthy of this inaugural ‘Tiara Tuesday’ post.
Instantly recognisable to many as the iconic crown featured on Queen Elizabeth II’s image on coins and stamps, this remarkable piece of jewellery was originally created for the coronation of George IV. It was designed for him to wear over his Cap of Estate during the procession to Westminster Abbey.
Continue reading “Tiara Tuesday – The Diamond Diadem”
20th June, 1897 – Queen Victoria’s diary entry
“This eventful day, 1897 has opened, and I pray God to help and protect me as He has hitherto done these sixty long eventful years!… God will surely help me on! How well I remember this day sixty years ago when I was called from my bed by dear Mama to receive the news of my accession!”
Some nine months after she became the longest reigning monarch in British history, surpassing her grandfather, George III, Queen Victoria reached another milestone: her Diamond Jubilee. Among the many wonderful gifts she received, including an beautiful lace fan from the ‘Worshipful Company of Fan Makers’ and a jade incense burner from the Emperor of China, there were more the personal gifts from children to their mama, or grandchildren to ‘Gangan’.
Continue reading “Queen Victoria’s Hesse Diamond Jubilee Brooch”
Prince Albert is remembered for many things – his interest in science and farming, his patronage of the arts, and the personal triumph that was the Great Exhibition – but what not enough people talk about, outside of already interested circles, is his fantastic eye for jewels.
Continue reading “Prince Albert’s Sapphire Cluster Brooch”
Mistress of the Robes 