Crown of Queen Mary

Queen Mary's Crown

Crown of Queen Mary is a significant piece of the British Crown Jewels, specifically made for Queen Mary, the consort of King George V, for the coronation in 1911. Unlike many other crowns that have been reused and altered for different monarchs, the Crown of Queen Mary was a new creation, reflecting the changing tastes and styles of the early 20th century, as well as the personal preferences of Queen Mary herself.

History

The Crown of Queen Mary was commissioned in 1911 for the coronation of King George V and Queen Mary. It was designed by the then Crown Jeweller, Garrard & Co, who have been responsible for creating and maintaining many pieces within the Crown Jewels. The design of the crown was innovative for its time, incorporating both traditional elements found in British coronation regalia and unique features that highlighted Queen Mary's personal style.

Design

The crown is made of gold and is set with an impressive array of gemstones, including diamonds, pearls, emeralds, sapphires, and rubies. One of the most notable features of the Crown of Queen Mary is its lack of a cap, which makes it lighter and gives it a distinctive silhouette compared to other British crowns. The crown also features a detachable arch, which can be removed to transform it into a circlet. This versatility was a particular request from Queen Mary, who was known for her keen interest in and knowledge of jewels and regalia.

Significance

The Crown of Queen Mary holds a unique place in the history of the British Crown Jewels. It was the first crown to be made specifically for a queen consort in several centuries, signifying the importance of Queen Mary's role in the British monarchy. Additionally, the crown's design reflects the transition from the opulent, heavy crowns of the past to more modern and wearable pieces. After Queen Mary's death, the crown did not see regular use, as subsequent queen consorts have had the option to use existing crowns or commission new pieces.

Legacy

The Crown of Queen Mary is part of the collection of the Crown Jewels housed in the Tower of London. It remains a popular exhibit, attracting visitors from around the world interested in the history and pageantry of the British monarchy. The crown is also a symbol of the enduring legacy of Queen Mary, both as a consort and as a figure who significantly influenced the style and substance of royal regalia.

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