It's a Diamond Jubilee!

Excitement is in the air as the UK prepares to celebrate the first Diamond Jubilee in over 100 years. And what a celebration it will be, including an exhibition of the very best pieces of jewelry in the Queen’s collection. The “unprecedented display”, titled “Diamonds: A Jubilee Celebration,” is the perfect way to celebrate Queen Elizabeth II’s becoming only the second monarch in British history to have attained the honor of a 60 year reign. 

The exhibition will include over two centuries of personal jewels worn by the various Queens of England including the only other Diamond Jubilee celebrant, Queen Victoria. Some highlights are pictured below courtesy of The Royal Collection ©2011, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. 

Queen Victoria’s Miniature Crown

Crafted in 1870 and set with 1,187 diamonds, this tiny crown was worn by Queen Victoria for her official Diamond Jubilee Portrait in 1897. The Queen favored the crown over any others in the last years of her life. Perhaps Queen Elizabeth II will follow in Victoria’s footsteps and wear the crown for her portrait as well? Or will she choose the Girls of Great Britain and Ireland Tiara that was given to her as a wedding present in 1947. Both headpieces will be displayed at the exhibition.

The Coronation Necklace and Earrings

Created for Queen Victoria, this set has been worn also by Queen Alexandra, Queen Mary, Queen Elizabeth, and the current Queen at their coronations. Containing 25 cushion shaped diamonds in graduated order with a central pear shaped drop weighing in at 22.48 carats, this necklace is quite the showstopper. Although the fact that it only seems to be trotted out at coronations seems a bit of a shame. I would love to see the Queen give it some more wear, perhaps whilst walking her beloved Corgis? Just a suggestion. 

The Williamson Diamond Brooch

One of the newer items in the royal collection, this brooch features at its center a pink diamond that has been claimed to be “the finest pink diamond” ever discovered. Discovered in Tanzania in 1947, the stone was a wedding present to the young Queen who had the stone set into a jonquil-shaped brooch. 

So mark your calendars because this spectacular showing will be on display during the months of August and September at Buckingham Palace. It will truly be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see these historical jewels all in one place.