Famous jewels have always been a symbol of wealth, power, and status, and throughout history, they have been owned and worn by many of the most prominent figures of their time. Among these famous jewels are the Heneage Jewel and the Armada Jewel, two stunning pieces of English royal history that have captivated the world with their intricate designs and rich history. In this article, we will explore the origins, designs, and significance of these two famous jewels.

What are They?

The Heneage Jewel and the Armada Jewel are two of the most remarkable jewels in English history. These jewels are fascinating examples of the exquisite craftsmanship and skill of English goldsmiths during the Renaissance period. They are also a testament to the wealth and power of the English monarchy at that time.

The Heneage Jewel

The Heneage Jewel is a magnificent gold pendant that was made in the late 16th century. It was commissioned by Sir Thomas Heneage, a prominent English courtier, and Member of Parliament. The jewel was made by a skilled goldsmith named Nicholas Hilliard, who was renowned for his miniature paintings and jewelry.

The jewel is made of gold and is decorated with enamel and precious stones. The central piece of the jewel is a portrait of Queen Elizabeth I, set within a large oval frame. The frame is surrounded by four smaller portraits of the Queen, set in diamond-shaped frames. The rest of the pendant is adorned with enamel and precious stones, including rubies, diamonds, and pearls.

The Heneage Jewel was passed down through the Heneage family for several generations, and in the 19th century, it was acquired by the British Museum, where it is now on display.

The Armada Jewel

The Armada Jewel is another magnificent piece of English royal history. It was made in 1588 to commemorate the English victory over the Spanish Armada. The jewel was commissioned by Queen Elizabeth I and was made by an unknown goldsmith.

The Armada Jewel is made of gold and is set with diamonds, rubies, and pearls. It is designed in the shape of a ship, with a central diamond representing the Queen, and smaller diamonds representing the ships of the English fleet. The jewel also features the Latin inscription "Felicitas Publica", which translates to "public happiness", and is surrounded by an inscription celebrating the English victory over the Spanish Armada.

The Armada Jewel was passed down through the royal family for several generations, and it is now part of the Royal Collection. It is on display in the Tower of London, where it is a popular attraction for tourists and history enthusiasts alike.

Comparison between the Heneage Jewel and the Armada Jewel

The Heneage Jewel and the Armada Jewel are two of the most remarkable jewels in English history, and while they share some similarities, they also have many differences.

The Heneage Jewel is a gold pendant, while the Armada Jewel is designed in the shape of a ship. The Heneage Jewel is decorated with enamel and precious stones, while the Armada Jewel is set with diamonds, rubies, and pearls. The Heneage Jewel features portraits of Queen Elizabeth I, while the Armada Jewel features a central diamond representing the Queen.

Both jewels were made during the late 16th century, and they are both remarkable examples of the exquisite craftsmanship of English goldsmiths during the Renaissance period. They are also both symbols of the wealth and power of the English monarchy at that time.

The Heneage and Armada Jewels Today

The Heneage Jewel and the Armada Jewel are both fascinating pieces of English royal history that continue to captivate people today. They are not only valuable examples of the exquisite craftsmanship of English goldsmiths during the Renaissance period, but they also serve as symbols of the wealth and power of the English monarchy.

Today, the Heneage Jewel is on display at the British Museum, where it continues to amaze visitors with its intricate design and rich history. The jewel is a popular attraction, and it is often featured in special exhibitions and displays.

The Armada Jewel is also on display, but it can be found in the Tower of London, where it is part of the Royal Collection. Visitors can see the jewel up close and learn about its fascinating history and significance.

Overall, the Heneage Jewel and the Armada Jewel are two remarkable examples of English royal history. They are not only valuable works of art, but they also provide insight into the wealth and power of the English monarchy during the Renaissance period.