The Kings Coronation Jewels – Our Designers Weigh In

Imperial State Crown with the Cullinan II Diamond. © Royal Collection Trust

While soon-to-be King Charles is pushing for a low-key coronation (well, as low-key as a Royal Coronation can be), some of the world’s most valuable and historical jewels will be on display.

Our designers Karis Rosenkranz, Kelly Beagan, and Rhianna Chillingworth take a break from creating in our Brisbane studio to share an expert’s view on the King’s Coronation Jewels. 

Sovereigns Gold Sceptre (Featuring the Cullinan I Diamond):

This brilliant gold sceptre has been used in every coronation since 1661 and is set with the dazzling Cullinan I Diamond – the largest colourless cut diamond in the world. The diamond is so large, the Sovereigns Gold Sceptre had to be reinforced to bear its weight.

“As skilled jewellers, we understand the importance of our craft and its connection to royalty. Our profession dates back centuries, and in the past, only the wealthiest and most powerful could afford our services. Today, we continue to honour this legacy by creating exquisite pieces fit for a king. The Sovereigns Gold Sceptre, featuring the breath-taking Cullinan I Diamond, is a true symbol of leadership and power. Its grandeur and magnificence serve as a testament to the authority of the King and the significance of the coronation ceremony.”

The Golden Orb

This spectacular small orb weighs 1.32kg, and is mounted with emeralds, rubies and sapphires, diamonds, and pearls.

“Creating a perfect orb like the Golden Orb is a challenging feat, especially considering that jewellers did not have access to power tools to polish it during the time of its creation. Additionally, the fact that the main purple stone is set upside down is a unique stylistic choice that adds to its uniqueness.”

Charles’ Signet Ring:

A sentimental piece worn by the King since the 1970s, King Charles’ signet is adorned with the crest of the Prince of Wales and is 175 years old. He wears it on his right pinkie finger, above his wedding band. 

“The enduring quality of a well-crafted gold piece is exemplified by Charles’ Signet Ring, which is designed to last for generations. Despite being less technically challenging to create and more affordable than other pieces, its true beauty lies in its symbolic significance. The ring bears the seal of the family, an ancient tradition used to identify and authenticate important documents by pressing the seal onto parchment and sealing it with wax using the ring.”

The Coronation Ring

A Ruby cross set over a blue stone, this ring is worn on the fourth finger to represent his ‘wedding’ to the people. 

“This ring provides a glimpse into the ancient practice of cutting stones for specific pieces, a process that has reversed in modern times. Nowadays, jewellers find gemstones first and then craft the piece around the stone. However, in ancient times, the availability of gemstones, diamonds, and raw precious material was not limited, allowing for more creative cuts, such as the ruby cross that was shaped to fit this particular ring.”

Imperial State Crown (Cullinan II Diamond):

To be worn during the Coronation ceremony, and when King Charles appears before the people, on the balcony of Buckingham Palace. The crown is set with 2,868 diamonds, including the St Edwards Sapphire, and the Cullinan II diamond, the second largest diamond cut from the Cullinan Diamond.

“As jewellers, we draw inspiration from remarkable works of art like this. The colour scheme of these exquisite stones, coupled with the purple fabric, holds great symbolism, and we strive to create pieces today that evoke the same sense of awe and beauty.”

What Queen Camilla will be wearing:

Queen Mary’s Coronation Crown

This crown was created in 1911 by London jewellers Garrard and Co, for Mary of Tek, the wife of King George V., and is set with 2,200 diamonds. The crown will be reset with diamonds from Queen Elizabeth II’s personal jewellery collection.

“The Queen’s crown is a remarkable example of how jewellery design can convey a message through its intricate details. Its structured arch is delicately crafted with a more feminine touch compared to the robust and powerful design of the King’s crown. The attention to detail and the symbolism embedded within the design highlights the mastery of the craft of jewellery-making. This is a hallmark of excellent jewellery craftsmanship, where every detail is carefully crafted to tell a unique story.”

At Diamondport, we believe every piece of jewellery tells a story. Looking to start your love story? Start with our collection of stunning engagement rings, weddings rings, or book a consultation to create your own crown jewel.