LONDON Dec. 5 (U.S.): St. Edward’s historic crown, which has been the centerpiece of coronations of kings in England for more than 350 years, has been removed from the Tower of London to be modified for the coronation of King Charles. A third Buckingham Palace next May.
The tiara, which usually forms part of the crown jewels on display in the Tower, has been in use since the coronation of King Charles II in 1661 following the restoration of the monarchy after Oliver Cromwell’s 10-year republic.
St Edward’s Crown replaced a medieval copy, believed to date from the 11th century reign of Edward the Confessor, which was melted down in 1649.
Charles III will be crowned with St Edward’s Crown during the solemn ceremony in London’s Westminster Abbey on May 6, just as his late mother, Queen Elizabeth II, was in 1953. He will also wear the State’s Imperial Crown while serving.
Comprised of a solid gold setting set with rubies, amethysts, sapphires, garnets, topazes, and tourmalines, St. Edward’s Tiara follows its medieval predecessor in having four paté crosses and four fleur-de-lis. It also has a velvet cover with a fur band.
MI