Princess Ann Opens New Crown Jewels Display

The Princess Royal greets Varda Shine, DTC and Dominic Brand, Forevermark, at the re-presentationof the Crown Jewels

(IDEX Online News) – Ann, the Princess Royal, officially opened a new display of the world famous Crown Jewels at the Tower of London, which has been completed to celebrate the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II.

Her Royal Highness was welcomed by General Lord Richard Dannatt, Constable of the Tower of London, as the Yeoman Warders (also known as ‘Beefeaters’) stood on parade.

The re-presentation of the Jewel House includes a new introductory exhibition, the role of the Tower in protecting these treasures and the long tradition of coronations in England.

The exhibition examines how the regalia are used during coronation ceremonies and explores the symbolism of each object. Newly restored film footage of the Queen’s coronation in 1953 is shown to create a sense of the atmosphere on such a momentous occasion.

The regalia has been newly displayed in the order that it is used in the ceremony, and Handel’s coronation anthems will be heard as visitors move through the exhibition.

Improved lighting has also been introduced to highlight the true beauty of the Crown Jewels, set with famous diamonds such as the Koh-I-Noor, Cullinan and Stars of Africa.

Other new features include tactile three-dimensional models for visually impaired visitors.

“We are incredibly proud to unveil this new presentation of the world’s premier collection of diamonds and precious jewels," said Michael Day, Chief Executive of Historic Royal Palaces.

"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.”