Understand the difference between the two most important royal crowns of British royalty

Like every tradition, in England there is a tradition that is not at all peculiar, as it is more determined as a rigid rule. During the coronation of the future king or queen, there is a tradition, the exchange of crowns, to St. Edward’s and that of the Imperial State.

Made of solid gold, the crown of St. Edward’s, weighs 2.23 kg, bearing many precious stones. The piece was created in 1661, as a replacement for the medieval crown that had been melted down in 1649 by parliamentarians after the assassination of King Charles I. First used for the coronation of Charles II.

Although it is not an exact copy of the medieval design, it matches the original by having the crosses, paws, fleurs-de-lis and arches. Formed by a solid gold frame, it has several stones such as: sapphires, rubies, tourmalines, amethysts, garnets and topaz.

Historically, it must remain in Westminster Abbey in London, with an incalculable cultural, historical and symbolic value, used only in coronations, it is the most important crown of all.

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At the end of the ceremony, the already crowned king or queen goes to the chapel, a small room inside Westminister Abbey, where both the costume and the crown are changed. The golden robe is replaced with a purple one, and the St. Edward’s by the Imperial State Crown or State Crown.

The term, crown of imperial state, is taken from the 15th century, when monarchs used the design of a crown enclosed by arches, declaring that England was subject to no other power on earth but God alone.

A simpler crown so to speak, as this jewel also has a priceless price, it is the crown of the Imperial State. Set in gold and adorned with 2,868 diamonds, including the massive 117-carat Cullinan II, 17 sapphires, 11 emeralds, 269 pearls and 4 rubies. This crown was made in 1937, and first used at the coronation of King George VI, who succeeded Queen Victoria.

As well as royal crowns, jewels and royal artifacts can be seen in the Tower of London, where they are kept for Crown Jewels displays.

Featured photo: The crowns worn by the royal family of Great Britain. Playback/ MF/ Magazine