Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee Necklace
Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee Necklace is a stunning piece of jewelry that was made to celebrate the 50th anniversary of her reign. It was created in 1887 by the jeweler, Carrington & Co., and was a gift from the people of the United Kingdom to their beloved Queen.
The Design
The necklace is made of 26 large and 26 small diamonds, with a total weight of 161 carats. The design features a central motif of nine large diamonds, with a large drop diamond hanging from the center. The necklace also has a detachable pendant, which can be worn separately as a brooch.
The design of the necklace was inspired by the style of jewelry worn by Queen Victoria's grandmother, Princess Augusta of Hesse-Kassel. The necklace was meant to be a symbol of the enduring love and loyalty of the British people to their Queen.
The Presentation
The necklace was presented to Queen Victoria during a special ceremony at Buckingham Palace on June 20, 1887. The ceremony was attended by members of the royal family, as well as representatives from the government and the people of the United Kingdom.
The Queen was said to be deeply moved by the gift, and wore the necklace frequently throughout the rest of her reign. She also wore the necklace in a famous portrait by the artist, Heinrich von Angeli, which was painted in 1893.
The Legacy
Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee Necklace remains one of the most iconic pieces of jewelry associated with the British monarchy. It has been worn by several members of the royal family over the years, including Queen Elizabeth II, who wore it for her Golden Jubilee in 2002.
The necklace is currently on display at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, where it is part of the museum's permanent collection. It serves as a reminder of the enduring legacy of Queen Victoria, and the enduring love and loyalty of the British people to their monarchs.
Conclusion
Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee Necklace is a stunning piece of jewelry that has played an important role in the history of the British monarchy. Its design and presentation are a testament to the enduring love and loyalty of the British people to their Queen, and its legacy continues to inspire and captivate people around the world.
