Discover the most iconic and valuable gems that are part of the British monarchy. From historic diamonds to legendary sapphires, these pieces are not only symbols of power but also witnesses to centuries of history. Explore the richness and cultural significance of these invaluable relics, many of them adorning the imperial crowns. Learn the stories behind each precious stone and its relevance to royalty.
Survived revolution and upheaval
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This tiara is an iconic piece of British royalty, known for its distinctive design of 15 intertwined circles and the option to interchange pearls with emeralds. Its rich history, including being smuggled out of Russia and subsequently acquired and modified by Queen Mary, makes it a jewel of significant historical and aesthetic value.
Referred to as 'bracelets of sincerity and wisdom'
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These bracelets are essential historical pieces of the British Coronation Regalia, used in every ceremony since 1661. They symbolize sincerity and wisdom, fundamental virtues for the monarch, and represent divine protection and military leadership. Their intricate design in gold and enamel makes them an artistic and cultural testament of great value.
Worn by the monarch after coronation
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The Imperial State Crown is a central piece of the British Crown Jewels, worn by the monarch at the end of the coronation and at State occasions. Its historical significance and the inclusion of legendary gems like the Black Prince's Ruby make it an unparalleled symbol of the monarchy. Its design and the richness of its materials establish it as one of the most important and recognizable jewels in the United Kingdom.
Used at every coronation since 1661
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This sceptre is a fundamental symbol of monarchical authority and good governance, used in every British coronation since 1661. Its significance is enhanced by the inclusion of the Cullinan I diamond, the Star of Africa, making it a piece of incalculable historical and material value.
Created for Charles II's coronation
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The Sovereign's Orb is a central symbol of monarchical authority, representing the sovereign's power over the Christian world. Its presentation during the coronation underscores the belief in the divine origin of the monarch's power, solidifying its ceremonial and historical importance.
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One of the crown jewels of the United Kingdom
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This crown is a central piece of British royal history, designed for Queen Mary in 1911 and later worn by Queen Consort Camilla at her 2023 coronation. Its design with 2200 diamonds and its reuse by royal consorts underscore its significance and historical value within the Crown Jewels. Furthermore, its history as a personal gift from Queen Mary to the Crown adds unique meaning.
Largest cut clear-diamond in the world
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The Cullinan I is the world's largest cut diamond, weighing 530.2 carats, and a central piece of the British Crown Jewels. Its origin from the Cullinan diamond, the largest ever found, and its setting in the Royal Sceptre with Cross, make it a symbol of the British monarchy and a priceless treasure.
One of the most recognizable gems in the world
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The Cullinan II is a 317.40-carat diamond set in the Imperial State Crown, making it a central piece of the British Crown Jewels. Its immense size and incalculable value, stemming from the original Cullinan diamond—the largest ever found—bestow upon it iconic status and unparalleled historical significance.
One of the largest cut diamonds in the world
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This 105-carat diamond is a central piece of the Queen Mother's Crown, notable for its size and controversial history of ownership. Its presence in the British Crown Jewels since 1849 and its use in royal coronations make it an item of immense historical and cultural value.
Worn by British queens
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The Diamond Diadem is a British Crown Jewel of immense historical and symbolic value, commissioned for George IV's coronation in 1821. Its continuous use by monarchs such as Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth II at State Openings has made it a recognizable emblem of the monarchy, immortalized on stamps and coins.
Among the most important jewels worn by the Queen abroad
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This jewel set is a central piece of British royalty, created in 1858 for Queen Victoria and worn at multiple coronations, including Queen Camilla's. Its historical value and the magnitude of its 26 diamonds, totaling 161 carats, make it an unparalleled treasure.
Symbolises the monarch's authority
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The Sword of State is a fundamental piece of the British Crown Jewels, symbolizing the authority and power of the monarch. Its presence in ceremonies and public events underscores the continuity and solemnity of the British monarchy. It is an object of great historical and cultural value, representing centuries of tradition and governance.
Symbolizes the monarch's power under God
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The Coronation Ring is a fundamental symbol of 'kingly dignity' and the British monarch's authority, used in every coronation ceremony. Its unique design, featuring an engraved ruby and diamonds, makes it a piece of inestimable historical and ceremonial value within the Crown Jewels.
Created for Queen Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon's coronation
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This crown is a symbol of the British monarchy, specifically created for the coronation of Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother in 1937. Its design incorporates 2,800 diamonds and houses the famous and controversial Koh-i-Noor diamond, giving it immense historical and cultural value. The crown represents a significant piece within the collection of British Crown Jewels.
Our methodology for ranking the British Crown Jewels focuses on their historical and cultural impact, as well as their recognition as iconic pieces of royalty.