"objects and visual projections will explain the stone's story"
The Kohinoor diamond is to be cast as a “symbol of conquest” as part of a new display of Britain’s Crown Jewels at the Tower of London in May 2023.
The new Jewel House exhibition will examine the history of the Kohinoor diamond using a combination of artefacts and visual projections, according to Historic Royal Palaces (HRP), the nonprofit organisation responsible for managing Britain’s palaces.
Queen Consort Camilla has decided not to wear the ceremonial crown during the coronation of King Charles III on May 6, 2023.
But the diamond, which is currently set in the Crown of Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother, stays inside the Tower.
About the upcoming show, HRP said: “The history of the Kohinoor, which is set within the Crown of Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother, will be explored.”
A statement read: “A combination of objects and visual projections will explain the stone’s story as a symbol of conquest, with many previous owners, including Mughal Emperors, Shahs of Iran, Emirs of Afghanistan, and Sikh Maharajas.”
A few years before she was to be proclaimed empress of India, Queen Victoria acquired the Kohinoor diamond from the treasure of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
The Kohinoor diamond has been a prominent feature in previous British coronations.
The new post-Coronation display at the Tower of London will feature it prominently.
Andrew Jackson, resident Governor of the Tower of London and Keeper of the Jewel House, said:
“We look forward to expanding the stories we are telling about the Crown Jewels, and to showcasing this remarkable collection for millions of visitors from around the world to enjoy.
“We are delighted to unveil our brand-new Jewel House display from May 26, offering visitors a richer understanding of this magnificent collection.
“As the home of the Crown Jewels, we are delighted that the Tower of London will continue to play its part during this historic Coronation year.”
The Tower of London’s Jewel House, which has housed Britain’s Crown Jewels for almost 400 years, has undergone its first significant renovation in more than ten years.
Charles Farris, public historian for the History of the Monarchy at HRP said:
“The Crown Jewels are the most powerful symbols of the British monarchy and hold deep religious, historic, and cultural significance.”
“From their fascinating origins to their use during the Coronation ceremony, the new Jewel House transformation will present the rich history of this magnificent collection with more depth and detail than ever before.”
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