On coronation day, St. Edward’s Crown will be used to solemnify Charles as King. Originally made for Charles II in 1661, the crown was commissioned from Royal Goldsmith Robert Vyner. This incredible piece features four crosses-pattée and four fleurs-de-lis, as well as two arches. Made from solid gold, this incredible crown is set with rubies, amethysts, sapphires, garnet, topazes and tourmalines with velvet fabric and an ermine band.
From a jeweler’s perspective, this piece was no doubt made with lost wax casting, in smaller components which were then assembled into the gold frame. The gemstones are mostly cabochons totalling 444 individual gems! While some of its gems are less rare and less expensive, the rubies are top notch. Finding matching suites of stones to make this piece would have been challenging. The metal work appears to be expert level, and one would expect no less!
Sparkle on, King Charles!
