1. The Imperial State Crown & the Cullinan II Diamond
Handcrafted in 1937 for King George VI, the Imperial State Crown remains a symbol of regal splendour. It boasts a spectacular 3,170 stones: diamonds, pearls, emeralds, sapphires, and rubies. At its front sits the Cullinan II, or “Second Star of Africa”—a 317‑carat marvel cut from the largest gem-quality diamond ever discovered.
2. The Black Prince’s Ruby & Stuart Sapphire
These gems hold centuries of tale. The Black Prince’s Ruby—actually a red spinel—was a gift in 1367 and now resides in the Imperial State Crown’s front cross. The Stuart Sapphire, originally owned by Charles I and smuggled during the Glorious Revolution, now rests at the back of the crown.
3. The Koh-i-Noor Diamond
One of the most controversial and legendary diamonds in history, the Koh‑i‑Noor is a 105‑carat oval brilliant currently set in the Crown of Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother. Its journey—from Mughal emperors to British monarchs—is as complex as its legendary pedigree.
4. The Crown of Scotland
The oldest surviving royal crown in the British Isles, the Crown of Scotland dates back to at least 1540. Crafted from Scottish gold and silver, it’s decorated with freshwater pearls and gemstones—an emblem of the country’s enduring heritage,
5. The Beau Sancy Diamond
Though smaller, the Beau Sancy holds immense prestige. This pale-yellow diamond once adorned the brows of French and Prussian royalty. After centuries of royal history, it finally went to auction in 2012, fetching nearly $10 million.
