The Jewel House

The Jewel House contains the Crown Jewels

The Jewel House contains the Crown Jewels, most of which date from 1661, when a new set was made for the coronation of Charles II; Parliament had destroyed the previous crowns and sceptres after the execution of Charles I in 1649. Only a few pieces survived, hidden by the clergy of Westminster Abbey until the Restoration. Since 1994, the Crown Jewels have resided in the new purpose built Jewel House. The most notable are:

  1. The Imperial State Crown with four arches, originally made for Queen Victoria's coronation in 1838. The chief jewels were taken from older crowns and the Royal collection.
  2. Amongst them, the fine ruby given to the Black Prince by Peter the Cruel after the battle of Navarette, 3rd April, 1367. This was worn by Henry V in the coronet encircling his helmet at the battle of Agincourt in 1415. For the coronation of Mary II with William III, this ruby was set in the Queen's Crown of State.
  3. The crown was enlarged and lightened in weight for the coronation of H.M. Edward VII, and then contained 2,818 diamonds, 297 pearls, and many other jewels, the whole weighing 39 ounces and 5 pennyweights.

It has since been again somewhat improved and altered to allow of the large oblong brilliant "Star of Africa," weighing 3O9 3/16 carats, cut from the "Cullinan" rough diamond, being inserted in front when not worn by H.M. the Queen. For the new arrangement 2 sapphires, 56 brilliants, and 52 rose diamonds have been added.