Queen Elizabeth II is one of the most iconic figures in modern history, and her wedding rings are just as legendary. The Queen married Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, on November 20, 1947, and the couple recently celebrated their 73rd wedding anniversary.
The Queen’s engagement ring was designed by Prince Philip himself, using diamonds from a tiara that belonged to his mother. The ring features a three-carat diamond in the center, flanked by ten smaller diamonds. The diamonds are set in platinum, and the band is made of yellow gold.
When it came time to choose a wedding band, the Queen opted for a simple gold band made by Cleave and Company. The band is made of Welsh gold, a tradition that dates back to the wedding of Queen Victoria’s eldest son in 1858. Welsh gold is considered to be some of the rarest and most valuable gold in the world.
But the Queen’s wedding band is not just a beautiful piece of jewelry. It’s also a symbol of tradition and continuity. The tradition of using Welsh gold in royal wedding bands dates back to the early 20th century, and it has been used in the wedding bands of every British monarch since 1923.
Over the years, the Queen’s wedding rings have become a symbol of her enduring love and commitment to Prince Philip. They are also a testament to the long-standing traditions of the British monarchy, and a reminder of the rich history and cultural heritage of the United Kingdom.
The Significance of Welsh Gold
Welsh gold is a rare and precious metal that has been prized for centuries. It was first discovered in the Dolgellau area of North Wales in the 19th century, and it quickly became popular among the British royal family.
The tradition of using Welsh gold in royal wedding bands began in 1923, when the Duke of York (later King George VI) married Lady Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon. Since then, Welsh gold has been used in the wedding bands of Queen Elizabeth II, Princess Margaret, Princess Anne, Princess Diana, Prince Charles, and Prince William.
Welsh gold is not only rare, but it is also considered to be of high quality. It contains a higher percentage of pure gold than most other types of gold, which gives it a richer, deeper color. It is also more malleable, which makes it easier to work with.
The Value of Queen Elizabeth’s Wedding Rings
The value of Queen Elizabeth’s wedding rings is difficult to estimate, as they are considered to be priceless. However, the Queen’s engagement ring alone is estimated to be worth over $200,000.
The value of the rings is not just in their monetary worth, but also in their historical and cultural significance. They are a tangible link to the past, and a symbol of the enduring traditions and values of the British monarchy.
Conclusion
Queen Elizabeth’s wedding rings are more than just beautiful pieces of jewelry. They are symbols of love, tradition, and continuity. They represent the enduring commitment of the Queen and Prince Philip, as well as the rich history and cultural heritage of the United Kingdom. They are a testament to the value of tradition and the importance of preserving our cultural heritage for future generations.
FAQ
What is the tradition of using Welsh gold in royal wedding bands?
The tradition of using Welsh gold in royal wedding bands dates back to the early 20th century, and it has been used in the wedding bands of every British monarch since 1923.
What is the value of Queen Elizabeth’s wedding rings?
The value of Queen Elizabeth’s wedding rings is difficult to estimate, as they are considered to be priceless. However, the Queen’s engagement ring alone is estimated to be worth over $200,000.
Who designed Queen Elizabeth’s engagement ring?
Prince Philip designed Queen Elizabeth’s engagement ring, using diamonds from a tiara that belonged to his mother.
