Crown of Queen Alexandra

Complete Guide to Heraldry Fig643

Crown of Queen Alexandra is a significant piece of the British Crown Jewels, specifically made for Queen Alexandra, the wife of King Edward VII. This crown was created for the coronation of Edward VII and Alexandra in 1902, marking a departure from the tradition of queens consort being crowned with the Crown of Mary of Modena or a new crown reflecting the design of the St Edward's Crown.

Design and Features

The Crown of Queen Alexandra was designed by the renowned jeweler, Garrard & Co, who have been responsible for creating and maintaining many pieces within the Crown Jewels. Unlike traditional crowns, which are typically made of solid gold and adorned with a variety of precious stones, Queen Alexandra's crown was innovative for its time, featuring a lighter frame made of silver and gold, and was decorated with eight half-arches.

The crown is set with an impressive array of jewels, including diamonds, pearls, emeralds, sapphires, and rubies. The design includes a cap of purple velvet, which is a traditional element in British crowns, symbolizing sovereignty and royalty. The crown's arches are detachable, allowing it to be worn as a circlet. This adaptability was a novel feature and reflected Queen Alexandra's personal style and preference for lighter, more wearable pieces.

Historical Significance

The creation of a new crown for Queen Alexandra underscored the significance of the coronation of Edward VII and his consort, marking the beginning of a new era in British monarchy following the long reign of Queen Victoria. The crown's design, emphasizing elegance and wearability, reflected the changing tastes and fashions of the early 20th century.

Queen Alexandra's crown did not serve as a model for subsequent consorts' crowns, as each queen consort since has had a crown made specifically for her, reflecting her personal taste and the fashion of the time. However, the crown remains a notable example of royal jewelry design and craftsmanship, as well as a symbol of the monarchy's adaptation to modernity.

Current Status

After Queen Alexandra's death, the crown did not see regular use. It is part of the collection of the Crown Jewels housed in the Tower of London, where it is on display for the public. The Crown of Queen Alexandra serves as a historical artifact, offering insight into the monarchy's traditions, the art of jewel crafting, and the personal style of Queen Alexandra herself.

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