Uncover the captivating history of the Spinel of the Great Imperial Crown, a gemstone once mistaken for a ruby, and its significance in the British Crown Jewels.

The Enigmatic Spinel of the Great Imperial Crown

Imagine a gemstone so captivating that it has been mistaken for a ruby for centuries, only to reveal its true identity as a spinel. This is the story of the Spinel of the Great Imperial Crown, a gem that has adorned the crowns of English monarchs for over 600 years. The spinel, a 170-carat red gemstone, is set in the front of the Great Imperial Crown, which is part of the British Crown Jewels. The crown was created for the coronation of King George VI in 1937 and is currently housed in the Tower of London. The spinel's journey through history is a tale of mistaken identity, royal intrigue, and the fascinating evolution of gemology.

The spinel's story begins in the 14th century when it was acquired by the Black Prince, Edward of Woodstock, who was the eldest son of King Edward III of England. It was given to him by King Peter of Castile as a reward for military assistance. For centuries, the spinel was believed to be a ruby, a common misconception at the time due to the lack of advanced gemological knowledge. This misidentification continued until the 18th century when gemologists began to distinguish between rubies and spinels.

The Great Imperial Crown, which houses the spinel, is a symbol of the British monarchy's power and history. It is worn by the monarch during the State Opening of Parliament and other significant ceremonial occasions. The crown itself is a masterpiece of craftsmanship, adorned with over 2,800 diamonds, 17 sapphires, 11 emeralds, and hundreds of pearls, in addition to the spinel. The spinel's prominent position in the crown highlights its historical importance and the value placed on it by the British monarchy.

The spinel's mistaken identity as a ruby is a fascinating aspect of its history. For centuries, spinels were often confused with rubies due to their similar color and appearance. It wasn't until the development of modern gemology that the two were accurately distinguished. This revelation has led to a greater appreciation for spinels, which are now recognized as valuable gemstones in their own right. The spinel in the Great Imperial Crown is one of the most famous examples of this historical confusion.

While the spinel's story is intriguing, it also raises questions about the value we place on certain gemstones and the history behind them. The fact that the spinel was once considered a ruby and held in such high regard speaks to the arbitrary nature of value in the world of gemstones. It also highlights the importance of scientific advancement in understanding and appreciating the natural world. The spinel's journey from misidentified ruby to celebrated gemstone is a testament to the evolving nature of human knowledge and the stories that shape our history.

The spinel of the Great Imperial Crown is more than just a gemstone; it is a symbol of history, power, and the ever-changing nature of human understanding. Its story is a reminder of the complexities of history and the importance of questioning and reevaluating what we think we know. As we continue to learn and grow, the spinel remains a captivating piece of the British Crown Jewels, a testament to the enduring allure of gemstones and the stories they tell.