This set of jewellery is inspired by the pearls, diamonds and colours of stones and shapes appearing round of the Imperial State Crown. The best known of all the crowns, the present Imperial State Crown was originally designed and made for Queen Victoria's Coronation in 1838 by Rundell, Bridge and Rundell, the Crown Jewellers. This crown was used at the Coronation of King Edward VII and King George V. It was remade with practically the same stones for King George VI in 1937. For the Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II in 1953 the shapes of the arches were altered to reduce the height. The jewels symbolise a lot more than precious stones, they represent virtues that a monarch should have. Pearls represent divine power, sapphires symbolise purity, chastity and sincerity and diamonds represent power, strength and courage. The crown itself is mounted in gold and silver. It weighs 2 pounds 13 ounces and is set 2,868 , 17 sapphires, 11 emeralds, 5 rubies and 273 pearls. The most important and mystical of these stones are, St Edward's Sapphire. This is a square sapphire set in the top cross. This sapphire is said to have been taken from a ring found on the finger of Edward the Confessor by Abbot Lawrence on 13th October 1163, when the body was being reinterred in Westminster Abbey. Henry II was present at the time. It was presented to the King, and it has been used by the Monarch ever since.
Measurements
The necklace is 40cm(16in) long with a 6cm(2.4in) extension. The centrepiece measures 3cm(1.2in) by 3cm(1,2in).
Weight: approximately 40g.
We wish for you to enjoy your jewellery for as long as possible, and therefore recommend you read the following care instructions.
Please do not expose the jewellery to harsh chemicals, extreme temperatures or sunlight for a prolonged period.
Please make sure to apply cosmetics, perfume and hairspray prior to putting on the jewellery to avoid possible blemishing and discolouration.
Do remove the jewellery when performing any activity which may cause damage to the product, e.g. exercising, showering or performing household tasks.
Store each piece of jewellery separately as constant brushing together can damage the finish.
Acid in your skin and fragrances can attack the plated finish and so from time to time you should gently wash the items in your hands with warm soapy water.
Do not use brushes or cloths. Rinse in warm water and dry carefully.
Avoid using Ultrasonic jewellery cleaner which can dislodge the stones.