New display of Crown Jewels inaugurated at Tower of London

An exhibit of the famous Crown Jewels was inaugurated at the hands of Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal at the Tower of London. The exhibit is in its all new avatar, following the re-presentation of the Jewel House to give the Crown Jewels a display suited to the 21st century. The exhibit was inaugurated in time for the celebrations of the Diamond Jubilee of Her Majesty The Queen and the Olympic Games.

The re- presentation of the Jewel House was performed with the support of the De Beers Family of Companies.

The re-presentation of the Jewel House includes a new introductory exhibition featuring evocative graphics, music and film footage narrating the importance of the Crown Jewels to the British Monarchy, the role of the Tower in protecting these treasures and the tradition of coronations in England. The exhibition examines the importance of the regalia during coronation ceremonies, and their symbolisms. Newly restored film footage of Her Majesty The Queen’s coronation in 1953 is also featured. The regalia has been newly displayed in the order that it is used in the ceremony, and Handel’s coronation anthems plays in the backdrop. The Crown Jewels at the Tower of London are a unique working collection of royal regalia and are still regularly used by The Queen in important national ceremonies, such as the annual State Opening of Parliament.

The Jewel House has also been enhanced with improved lighting, tactile three-dimensional models for visually impaired visitors, and a lift offering level access to a raised viewing platform for the first time.

Michael Day, Chief Executive of Historic Royal Palaces, said: “We are incredibly proud to unveil this new presentation of the world’s premier collection of diamonds and precious jewels. The Crown Jewels, renowned for their beauty and historical significance, capture the imagination of visitors worldwide. This new display, generously supported by the De Beers Family of Companies, gives them a home fit for the 21st century. With all eyes on London in 2012 for The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and the Olympic Games, this display will enable us to showcase Britain’s most prized treasures in all their glory.”

The new Crown Jewels display opened to the public on March 29, 2012.