George IV Diadem (1820)
As seen worn by the Queen on coins and stamps

From its frequent appearance on postage stamps and coins this exceptionally beautiful head ornament, incorporating the national emblems of England, Scotland and Ireland, is probably the most familiar piece of Her Majesty the Queen's jewellery.

Set with 1,333 diamonds, including a 4 carat pale yellow brilliant in the centre of the front cross, the diadem has been regularly worn by queens regnant and consort from Queen Adelaide onwards. The feminine association belies its origin, since it was made for George IV's use at his famously extravagant coronation in 1821. On that occasion he wore it over a large velvet 'Spanish' hat at the ceremonies in Westminster Hall and during the walking procession to Westminster Abbey.

The order for the diadem was placed with Rundells in 1820 and work was complete by May of that year. The design reflects something of the discarded plan for George IV's Imperial State Crown, which was drawn up during the same period and was to have included the national emblems in place of the fleur-de-lys, although this idea was vetoed by the College of Arms.

The bill for the diadem amounted to the large sum of £8,216. This bill included an £800 hire charge for the diamonds (stones were regularly hired for use at coronations up to 1837). Normally the stones would have been returned to Rundells after the coronation, but in this case there is no sign that the delicately worked diamond sprays and crosses, a masterpiece of the new transparant style of setting, have been disturbed.

Today, the Diadem is worn by Her Majesty The Queen when travelling to and from the State Opening of Parliament.