Tiara

Évrard e frédéric bapst, diadema della duchessa d'anguoleme, smeraldi, diamanti, oro e argento, parigi 1819-20

Arvstorhertiginnan Stéphanie av Luxemburg

Maria Pavlovna by B.Kustodiev (фрагмент)

Nazlicoronation

Queen Elizabeth II of New Zealand 2

Queen Máxima of the Netherlands in 2015

Tiara is a type of crown or headgear traditionally worn by nobility and royalty, especially by women. It is often associated with princesses and queens and is considered a symbol of high social status, elegance, and beauty. Tiaras are typically made of precious metals such as gold or silver and are adorned with a variety of gemstones, including diamonds, rubies, emeralds, and sapphires.

History

The history of the tiara dates back to ancient times, with early examples found in the civilizations of Ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome. In these cultures, tiaras were often used to signify the wearer's divinity, power, and wealth. Over the centuries, the design and use of tiaras evolved, with the Byzantine Empire and the medieval period seeing the incorporation of more elaborate designs and religious symbolism.

In the Renaissance, tiaras became more associated with the secular aristocracy and royalty, serving as a key component of court dress and ceremonial attire. The 19th and 20th centuries saw a resurgence in the popularity of tiaras, partly due to the grand weddings and state occasions of European monarchies. During this time, tiaras became more intricate and elaborate, reflecting the fashion and art of the period.

Design and Construction

The design of a tiara can vary widely, from simple bands of metal to intricate structures adorned with complex patterns of gemstones. The construction of a tiara requires skilled craftsmanship, with jewelers and metalsmiths often spending hundreds of hours creating a single piece. The choice of gemstones and their arrangement can also carry symbolic meaning, with certain colors and types of stones associated with specific qualities or heraldry.

Cultural Significance

Tiaras hold significant cultural and symbolic meaning in many societies. They are often used in wedding ceremonies, with brides wearing them as a symbol of purity and love. In some cultures, tiaras are passed down through generations as heirlooms, carrying with them the history and tradition of a family or a nation.

In addition to their use in weddings and state ceremonies, tiaras are also worn at beauty pageants and formal events, where they signify the status of the wearer as someone of importance or achievement.

Modern Use

While the use of tiaras has declined in everyday life, they remain a popular accessory for special occasions, particularly among the nobility and members of royal families. Tiaras are often seen at state functions, royal weddings, and other ceremonial events, where they continue to symbolize status, elegance, and tradition.

See Also

• Crown
• Diadem
• Headgear
• Jewelry
• Monarchy
• Nobility