The Queen’s Most Valuable Jewellery

1. The Imperial State Crown
The Imperial State Crown is arguably the most iconic piece in the Queen's collection. With its storied history dating back to the 15th century, this crown is set with 2,868 diamonds, 273 pearls, 17 sapphires, 11 emeralds, and 5 rubies. The centerpiece of this crown is the famous Black Prince's Ruby, which was originally set into a Spanish helmet and was gifted to Henry V. It is worth noting that this ruby is not actually a ruby but a spinel. The crown also features the Cullinan II diamond, also known as the Second Star of Africa, which is a 317.4-carat diamond cut from the Cullinan diamond. The Imperial State Crown is worn by the Queen during the State Opening of Parliament and other ceremonial occasions.

2. The Cullinan Diamonds
The Cullinan diamonds are perhaps the most famous diamonds in the world, originating from the Cullinan mine in South Africa. The Cullinan I diamond, also known as the Great Star of Africa, is set in the head of the Sovereign’s Sceptre with Cross. This diamond weighs 530.2 carats and is the largest clear-cut diamond in the world. The Cullinan II diamond, which is set in the Imperial State Crown, weighs 317.4 carats. Both diamonds were cut from the Cullinan diamond, the largest gem-quality diamond ever discovered. These diamonds are valued in the hundreds of millions and are critical to the Queen's jewellery collection.

3. The Queen Mary’s Girls of Great Britain and Ireland Tiara
This tiara was a wedding gift to Queen Mary from the Girls of Great Britain and Ireland in 1893. The design of the tiara is a striking arrangement of diamonds set in a delicate framework of platinum. The tiara features a series of diamond-set scrolls, and its centerpiece is a large central diamond. This tiara has been worn by many members of the royal family, including Princess Diana, and is renowned for its intricate design and historical significance.

4. The Cambridge Lover's Knot Tiara
The Cambridge Lover’s Knot Tiara was originally made for Queen Mary in 1914. It is a stunning piece featuring large, tear-shaped diamonds suspended from a series of diamond-encrusted arches. This tiara was later passed on to Princess Diana and then to the Duchess of Cambridge. The Lover's Knot Tiara is known for its regal appearance and its association with several prominent royal figures.

5. The Queen's Diamond Jubilee Necklace
This necklace was commissioned to celebrate the Queen's Diamond Jubilee in 2012. It features 60 diamonds, each representing a year of her reign, and is set in a beautiful design that reflects the grandeur of the occasion. The necklace is a modern addition to the Queen’s collection, but it is already considered one of her most valuable pieces due to its symbolic significance and exquisite craftsmanship.

6. The Brazilian Aquamarine Parure
The Brazilian Aquamarine Parure is a set of jewellery given to the Queen as a gift from the Brazilian government in 1953. This set includes a necklace, earrings, and a tiara, all featuring stunning aquamarine stones. The parure is notable for its vibrant blue gemstones and is one of the Queen's most eye-catching sets of jewellery.

7. The Queen's Pearl Collection
The Queen’s pearl collection includes several sets of pearls, among them the Three Strand Pearl Necklace, which is a favorite of the Queen. This necklace features three strands of perfectly matched pearls and is often worn with a diamond clasp. The Queen's collection also includes a pair of pearl earrings and a pearl choker, all of which have been worn on numerous state occasions.

8. The Greville Tiara
The Greville Tiara was a gift from Mrs. Greville, a close friend of the Queen Mother, in 1942. It features a lattice design set with diamonds and is known for its understated elegance. This tiara has been worn by both the Queen and the Queen Mother and is valued for its classic design and historical value.

9. The Queen's Engagement Ring
The Queen’s engagement ring is a sapphire and diamond ring that was given to her by Prince Philip. The ring features a large sapphire surrounded by 14 diamonds, and it has become one of the most recognized pieces of royal jewellery. This ring is valued not only for its beauty but also for its personal significance to the Queen.

10. The Koh-i-Noor Diamond
The Koh-i-Noor diamond is one of the most famous diamonds in the world, and it is set in the Queen Mother's Crown. This diamond has a long and storied history, having been owned by various rulers and eventually acquired by the British Crown. The Koh-i-Noor is valued for its historical significance and its role in the British Crown Jewels.