Expected to be one of the most watched events of 2023, the coronation of King Charles III is scheduled for 6 May.
For the first time in modern history, Queen Consort Camilla won’t wear a newly commissioned crown, instead donning a version of Queen Mary’s crown, modified to include diamonds from the late Queen Elizabeth II’s personal collection.
“The choice of Queen Mary’s crown by her majesty is the first time in recent history that an existing crown will be used for the coronation of a consort instead of a new commission being made, in the interests of sustainability and efficiency,” a Buckingham Palace spokesperson confirmed.
According to reporting by the Daily Mail, shortly before her death, the Queen Elizabeth II indicated that at the coronation of Charles III the Queen Mother’s Crown should be worn.
The Queen Mother’s Crown is decorated with more than 2,800 diamonds, the most significant of all being the 105-carat Koh-i-Noor. The Type IIa D-Colour Koh-i-Noor is believed by many to be the world’s most valuable diamond. The diamond was discovered at the Kollur Mine in India in the 14th century. The rough is thought to have been in excess of 800 carats.
Over the past two decades, India's government has repeatedly requested Britain return the Koh-i-Noor. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently warned that any plans for the diamond to feature at the coronation would bring back "painful memories of the colonial past".
King Charles III will wear St Edward's Crown, which was recently returned to public display at the Tower of London following the completion of modification work.
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