A crowning moment

It is a piece of royal regalia that carries with it hundreds of years of history. The jewels which adorn it have been worn by kings and queens for centuries as a symbol of their power, their prestige and their importance. And today it was shown in its glittering gloriousness on that most 21st century of media - Instagram.

A crown made in the 11th century shown to full effect on the media of the 21st

(photo British Monarchy Instagram)

The Imperial State Crown is traditionally worn by the Queen for the State Opening of Parliament and as she made her way to the Palace of Westminster for today's ceremony, spectacular images of the regalia were shared on the British Monarchy Instagram account. The close ups showed the stunning jewels which adorn it in all their splendour. Among the gems beamed around the world in this oh so modern manner were the famous Black Prince's Ruby and St Edward's Sapphire.

St Edward's Sapphire on the Imperial State Crown, worn today by the Queen to open Parliament

(photo British Monarchy Instagram)

The crown was re-made for the coronation of King George VI from the old Imperial Crown which had been used since the middle of the 17th century. The Imperial State Crown is set with over 3,000 jewels and is usually seen from a distance when the Queen wears it to enter Parliament. Today, we got up close and personal and the results were stunning.