What are the points of a crown called?
The points of a crown, also known as the crown jewels, are a collection of the most valuable and historically significant gemstones in the world. These jewels are often worn by monarchs and other high-ranking officials as a symbol of their power and authority. The term “points” refers to the individual gemstones that make up the crown, each with its own unique characteristics and significance. In this article, we will explore the different types of points found in crowns and their historical importance.
Crown jewels have been a part of royal traditions for centuries, with many countries having their own sets of crown jewels. The most famous set of crown jewels is the British Crown Jewels, which are displayed at the Tower of London. The British Crown Jewels include a variety of points, such as the Imperial State Crown, the Crown of St. Edward, and the Queen’s Crown.
The Imperial State Crown
The Imperial State Crown is one of the most iconic pieces in the British Crown Jewels. It was made for the coronation of King Edward VIII in 1937 and is currently worn by the British monarch during the State Opening of Parliament. The crown features a total of 2,868 diamonds, 273 pearls, and 17 sapphires, including the Cullinan I and II diamonds, which are among the largest cut diamonds in the world. The points of the Imperial State Crown are arranged in a symmetrical pattern, with the central diamond being the largest and most prominent.
The Crown of St. Edward
The Crown of St. Edward is another important piece in the British Crown Jewels, having been used in the coronations of English and British monarchs since the 11th century. It is believed to be the oldest crown in the collection and is adorned with a variety of gemstones, including the St. Edward’s Sapphire, which is set in the front of the crown. The points of the Crown of St. Edward are also arranged in a symmetrical pattern, with the sapphire being the central stone.
The Queen’s Crown
The Queen’s Crown is another important piece in the British Crown Jewels, having been used in the coronations of British monarchs since the 17th century. It is made of gold and silver and features a total of 434 diamonds, 17 sapphires, and 11 emeralds. The points of the Queen’s Crown are arranged in a circular pattern, with the central diamond being the largest and most prominent.
Historical Significance
The points of a crown hold significant historical value, as they are often associated with the monarchy and the country’s history. For example, the Cullinan diamonds, which are part of the British Crown Jewels, were discovered in South Africa in 1905 and are named after the mine where they were found. The diamonds were presented to King Edward VII as a gift and have since become a symbol of British royal power.
In conclusion, the points of a crown, or crown jewels, are a collection of gemstones that hold significant historical and cultural value. These jewels are often worn by monarchs and other high-ranking officials as a symbol of their power and authority. The British Crown Jewels, in particular, are a prime example of the historical significance of these jewels, with their points having been used in the coronations of British monarchs for centuries.
