If you’ve ever visited the Tower of London, you’ll know that it’s home to some of the most valuable jewels in the world. The Crown Jewels, which are on display for visitors to see, consist of a collection of crowns, scepters, orbs, and other pieces of regalia that have been used in coronations and other important ceremonies for centuries.
But just how much are these jewels worth? Let’s take a closer look.
The Crown Jewels
The Crown Jewels are undoubtedly the most valuable collection of jewels in the Tower of London. They consist of 23,578 precious stones and weigh a total of 1,181 ounces (33.5 kg). The most famous pieces in this collection include:
– The Imperial State Crown: This crown was made in 1937 for the coronation of King George VI. It contains 2,901 precious stones including sapphires, emeralds, rubies, and diamonds. The centerpiece is the Cullinan II diamond which weighs 317.4 carats. – The Sovereign’s Sceptre: This sceptre was made in 1661 for the coronation of King Charles II.
It contains the Cullinan I diamond which is also known as the Great Star of Africa. It is one of the largest diamonds ever found and weighs an incredible 530. – The Imperial State Crown: This orb was made in 1661 for the coronation of King Charles II. It contains over 400 precious stones including amethysts, garnets, and topazes.
So how much are these jewels worth?
It’s difficult to put an exact value on these jewels as they are considered priceless due to their historical significance and cultural importance. However, experts have estimated that their value could be anywhere between £3 billion ($4 billion) to £25 billion ($33 billion).
This estimation takes into account the value of the individual stones, which are all of exceptional quality and rarity, as well as the craftsmanship and historical significance of each piece. For example, the Cullinan I diamond alone has been valued at over £400 million ($530 million).
- It’s worth noting that these jewels are not insured and are technically owned by the British monarchy. They are kept in the Tower of London under tight security and are only brought out for special occasions such as coronations or state openings of Parliament.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the jewels in the Tower of London are some of the most valuable and historically significant in the world. While their exact value is difficult to determine, it’s safe to say that they are worth billions of dollars due to their rarity, quality, and cultural importance. If you ever get a chance to visit the Tower of London, make sure to take a close look at these magnificent jewels – you won’t be disappointed!