Nestled in the heart of England, St. Edward's Crown is an iconic symbol of British monarchy, steeped in history and intrigue. This resplendent crown, used in the coronation of British monarchs since 1689, is a beacon of royal heritage that continues to captivate and inspire. Let's delve into the fascinating facts and stories behind this extraordinary crown.
St. Edward's Crown is named after Edward the Confessor, the last Anglo-Saxon king of England, who died in 1066. The crown we know today, however, is a replica of the original, created in 1661 for the coronation of King Charles II. The current crown, made in 1911 for King George V's coronation, is a faithful reproduction of the 1661 version.
The Design and Materials
Crafted from solid gold, St. Edward's Crown stands at an impressive 30.5 cm (12 inches) in height and weighs approximately 2.23 kg (5 lbs). It is adorned with four crosses patée, four fleur-de-lis, and two arches, all made of gemstones. The arches are said to represent the two archbishops who anoint the monarch during the coronation ceremony.
The crown's design is a masterclass in craftsmanship, with each element meticulously crafted and placed. The gold used is 22-carat, and the gemstones include sapphires, rubies, emeralds, and amethysts. The most notable gemstone is the Black Prince's Ruby, a large spinel, which sits at the front of the crown.
The Black Prince's Ruby
The Black Prince's Ruby is a 170-carat gemstone that has been a part of the crown since 1661. It is believed to have been given to the Black Prince, son of King Edward III, by King Pedro the Cruel of Castile in 1367. The gemstone has been passed down through generations and is now a prominent feature of St. Edward's Crown.
Despite its name, the Black Prince's Ruby is not a ruby at all. It is a spinel, a type of gemstone that can appear red, pink, or even black. The misnomer likely arose because the gemstone was believed to be a ruby when it was first acquired.
The Crown Jewels Thief
In 1671, a thief named Thomas Blood attempted to steal the Crown Jewels, including St. Edward's Crown. Disguised as a clergyman, Blood managed to get close to the crown but was caught when he tried to sell it to a jeweler. Despite his failed attempt, Blood was pardoned by King Charles II, who admired his audacity.
Blood's attempted theft is just one of many fascinating stories associated with St. Edward's Crown. The crown's rich history and the intrigue surrounding it continue to fascinate and captivate people around the world.
The Coronation Ceremony
St. Edward's Crown plays a pivotal role in the British coronation ceremony, which dates back to the 11th century. The crown is placed on the monarch's head by the Archbishop of Canterbury, symbolizing the beginning of their reign. The ceremony is filled with ancient rituals and traditions, many of which involve the crown.
The crown is also used in the coronation oath, where the monarch swears to govern the people of the United Kingdom and the other Commonwealth realms according to their respective laws and customs. The oath is taken with the crown on the monarch's head, emphasizing the importance of the crown in the ceremony.
The Coronation Oath
The coronation oath has evolved over time, with the current version used since 1911. The monarch swears to govern the people of the United Kingdom and the other Commonwealth realms according to their respective laws and customs. They also promise to maintain the Protestant religion and to uphold the law and the rights of the people.
The oath is a solemn promise, taken with the crown on the monarch's head, symbolizing the weight of responsibility that comes with the role. It is a moment of great significance in the coronation ceremony and in the life of the monarch.
The Anointing
Before the crown is placed on the monarch's head, they are anointed with holy oil. This ancient ritual is a symbol of the monarch's divine right to rule and their role as the head of the Church of England. The anointing is performed by the Archbishop of Canterbury and the Archbishop of York, using a spoon made from a single sapphire.
The anointing is a deeply meaningful part of the coronation ceremony, connecting the monarch to the long line of rulers who have gone before them. It is a moment of quiet reflection and contemplation, before the crown is placed on the monarch's head and they are ready to take their place on the throne.
From its origins in the 11th century to its role in modern coronations, St. Edward's Crown is a symbol of continuity and change. It is a testament to the enduring power of tradition and the resilience of the British monarchy. As the crown is passed down through the generations, it continues to captivate and inspire, a symbol of the past and a promise for the future.