The Royal Jewels

Although many of the monarchies of Europe and Russia no longer exist--or exist in a much more ceremonial capacity--their astonishing jewelry still remains and is still worn by the remaining royal families.

This is the story of an historic ruby parure worn by Crown Princess Mary of Denmark. It was made for Napoleon’s magnificent coronation in 1804 when an incredible amount is spent on attire as all eyes focus on France.

When most monarchies only use their symbols of royal power when lying in state, it is also the story of the most visible sign of royal dignity, legitimacy, when these impressive gems are worn at banquets and State visits. But few know that some of the world’s most fascinating jewels are often linked to high points in royal history.

Napoleon’s first fiancée Désirée, the Marseille silk trader’s daughter, attends the coronation wearing beautiful rubies and diamonds. Later she brings the parure with her when she becomes Queen of Sweden.

The Swedish royal family inherits magnificent jewels from the French family. Many remain in Sweden but some come to Denmark in 1869 when Désirée’s great-granddaughter Princess Lovisa marries the heir to the Danish throne. Crown Prince Frederik later inherits the rubies and his wife Crown Princess Mary wears the historic parure for the first time at her wedding in 2004.

Members of the Danish and Swedish Royal families tell the fascinating story of the Royal jewels and the human destinies behind the gems. The history of the Royal Jewels, the Royal Houses and the art history of the gems has been never told before.

A fascinating world few know – but many would like to know more about.