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Royal Sapphires – The Blue Crown Jewels

This is the last of our Sapphire-related posts for the week. We’ve explored the rich history and origins of the stunning blue gems, taking a closer look at one of the most beloved sapphire and diamond engagement rings, once worn by the late Diana, Princess Wales, and now donned by the beautiful Duchess of Cambridge, Kate Middleton. We’ve also shown you a few of the beautiful sapphire gemstone rings and diamond rings available from the purelydiamonds.co.uk shop that you can enjoy for yourself.

Just in case you need more convincing to treat yourself, or someone you love, to a stunning sapphire and diamond ring, here’s a quick look at some of the amazing sapphires in the collection of British Crown Jewels.

The Imperial State Crown

British Crown Jewels

Locked away in the famed Tower of London lies the ‘crown jewel’ in the British Crown Jewels collection, the Imperial State Crown. This breathtaking crown, easily recognised by it’s intricate fleurs-de-lis and cross pattern, contains not one, but two stunning royal sapphires. The first notable sapphire is the St. Edward’s Sapphire which dates back to 1042 where it was once part of the coronation ring of the last king of the House of Wessex, Edward the Confessor. The crown also holds the famous Stuart Sapphire, a 104 carat gemstone that was believed to have belonged to Charles II.

 

 

The King George VI Victorian Suite

King George Victorian SuiteWhile not officially part of the British Crown Jewels, the King George VI Victorian Suite is a beloved part of the Queen’s Jewels, the personal jewellery collection of Elizabeth II.

This breathtaking collection dates back to 1850 and originally consisted of a sapphire and diamond necklace and matching sapphire and diamond earrings with diamond & sapphire rings. In 1959, a sapphire and diamond pendant was added to the collection, which had been made from jewels removed from the original necklace a few years earlier. The suite of sapphires and diamonds was further enhanced in 1963 when a bracelet and tiara made to match the original pieces was added.

 

Prince Albert Sapphire Brooch

The Prince Albert BroochThe Prince Albert Sapphire Brooch was originally given to Queen Victoria by Prince Albert on the eve of their wedding day. It consists of an elongated Oval Cut sapphire surrounded by a dozen sparkling Round Cut diamonds.  The deep blue sapphire is estimated to be anywhere from 20 to 30 carats in size.  This stunning piece is another part of the Queen’s Jewels and part of Elizabeth II’s personal jewellery collection which she can be seen wearing quite frequently.

Now that you see just how highly prized sapphires are to the royal family, why not treat yourself to one or two of your own. Head over to the Purely Diamonds shop now to see some of the amazing sapphire and diamond rings and give your fine jewellery collection that royal touch.

Fill like a Queen with diamonds and gemstones from purelydiamonds.co.uk