THE IMPERIAL CROWN OF RUSSIA

The Imperial Crown of Russia is one of the most precious jewels of humanity, both for its historical value as for its invaluable design. Not in vain was it the symbol of the coronation of many czars throughout the history of the monarchy in that country.

The Imperial Crown of Russia was for 144 years the protagonist in the coronation ceremonies of the czars in ancient Russia, which were characterized by the luxury and solemnity of the dynasties that held the power at that time. No doubt the jewel was a symbol of power, but its exceptional beauty made it equally worthy of admiration.

As a typical jewel of the royals, this one was sent to be fashioned by the court jewelers, who with care and attention, and of course, without skimping on it, achieved a unique piece designed with the most valuable and precious metals and stones in the world.

Its design is inspired by Byzantine models, with a lower ring that touches the wearer’s head. The crown is divided into two areas adorned in pearls, representing the Roman Empire from east to west. In the center of the spheres there is a laurel wreath covered in diamonds, symbol of the temporary power of the rulers. In the gem there is also a place for the Christian faith, symbolized by a red spinel of 398.72 carats, with a cross of 5 diamonds.

The inner part of the imperial crown is covered with red velvet alluding to the Roman emperors. Meanwhile, the outer part of the crown is covered by 4936 diamonds.

This gem that for more than a century was a symbol of absolute dominance in Russia and weighing approximately 4 kilograms is exposed in the Kremlin Armoury State Diamond Fund, in Moscow, where people from around the world go to see one of the most valuable treasures in the history of the world. So impressive its value is that after the October Revolution the crown was used as a guarantee of a loan granted to Russia by Ireland.

Aware of the inestimable value of this and other jewels belonging to the monarchy, Peter the Great ordered their housing in the Diamond Fund. In this place there are treasures that can not be sold, auctioned, given away or modified.

The first person to wear the Imperial Crown of Russia was Empress Catherine II in 1762. The Emperor Nicholas II with Empress Alexandra of the Romanov dynasty were the last ones to carry the splendid jewel, since his coronation in May 1986 until his assassination in 1917.

The Imperial Crown of Russia is a literal representation of the splendorous and vented life style and the power the Russian czars had, which subsequently was one
of the causes of the end of the monarchy. Today this gem is a mandatory part in the list of the most valuable jewels in the world.