British Crown Jewels

The British Crown Jewels date from Charles II and so are relatively modem. Sadly, the Royal Sceptre lacks a magnificient rock crystal orb, which is the ancient emblem of divine kingship because it represents the priestly ability to compass the sun." The orb in the Royal Sceptre is often referred to as the Star of Jacob because in the prophecy of Balaam, the Sceptre represents the Messiah ... 

As the prerogative of royalty, purple has created a mystique for amethyst that elevated it above other types of quartz crystals. Coveted by Catherine the Great and embedded in the British Crown Jewels, amethyst was once considered a... 

Spinel is another simple oxide mineral. It is commonly seen today as a synthetic and may be any color. Natural red spinel was most prized as a gem, and usually was used as an imitation of ruby. Some notable pieces in the British and Russian crown jewels include large uncut spinels. These crystals are a deep red color and are distinctive because of their rough octahedral shape. 

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