In a dazzling display of regal elegance and what some might call questionable imperial tradition, Queen Camilla donned the famous ‘Coronation Necklace‘ during the momentous coronation of King Charles III at Westminster Abbey on Saturday 6 May.
The Independent reports that this exquisite piece of jewellery, which has been worn at coronations in 1902, 1911, 1937 and 1953, graced the Queen’s presence as she arrived alongside King Charles. The diamonds adorning the Coronation Necklace were part of Queen Victoria’s treasured jewellery collection, according to the Royal Collection Trust. In particular, it features the Lahore Diamond, which was previously part of the famous Timur Ruby Necklace.
The origins of the Coronation Necklace date back to 1858, when it was specially made for Queen Victoria, according to The Court Jeweller. Comprising a total of 26 diamonds, including a stunning 22.48 carat pendant – the Lahore Diamond – this majestic gem was once part of the Lahore Treasury in the Punjab region of what is now Pakistan. In 1851, the diamond found its way into the hands of Queen Victoria and was presented to her when British colonists took control of the area in 1849.
Queen Victoria held the necklace in high esteem, as evidenced by the fact that she was pictured wearing it in portraits commemorating her Diamond Jubilee. The necklace made its coronation debut in 1902 when Queen Alexandra proudly wore it, followed by Queen Mary in 1911. In 1937, Queen Mother Elizabeth also had the honour of wearing this magnificent piece.
In addition, Garrard, Queen Victoria’s esteemed jeweller, has created a pair of diamond pendant Coronation Earrings. This dazzling set features cushion-cut diamond studs and two opulent pear-shaped pendants. When Queen Elizabeth ascended the throne in 1953, she chose the Coronation Necklace and Earrings as her main jewellery for her momentous Coronation Day. Queen Elizabeth cherished this set throughout her reign, often wearing it to important occasions such as state dinners.
Queen Camilla’s choice of the Coronation Necklace pays tribute to the rich history and tradition associated with the British monarchy. It also serves as a reminder of Britain’s imperial past. Accompanying the necklace, Queen Camilla wore matching diamond earrings that were once the side stones in the Indian setting of the Koh-i-noor, a diamond that previously adorned Queen Mary’s crown. While Queen Camilla was crowned with Queen Mary’s Crown, the Koh-i-noor or any of its replicas did not feature in her royal ensemble.
