THE QUEEN’S DIAMONDS.

Shannon News, 4 September 1923, Page 4

THE QUEEN’S DIAMONDS.

Queen Mary possesses one of the most valuable collections of jewels in the world, apart, of course, from the Crown jewels, of which she has the use. Upon her marriage she was computed to have received gems to the value of well over £IOO,OOO, while the King adds to his wife's collection upon each of her birthdays. Considerable additions have also been made of late years Her Majesty's jewels by Indian potentates. During the visit of the King and Queen to India several rulers of leading Indian States were permitted to present to the Queen jewels—principally pearls — of a value that it is not easy to assess. Diamonds are Her Majesty's favourite gems, and she cafes little for coloured stones, although she has some exquisite emerald and ruby ornaments. Her Majesty's jewels are kept at Bucking ham Palace in strong rooms especially designed by the late King Edward shortly after he came to the throne. Each of the shelves is lined with white velvet, and everything is so arranged that whole sets of jewels, orders, etc., can be kept together, making it a matter of very little difficulty to obtain precisely the jewels that the Queen requires at the shortest notice. Smaller safes have lately been placed at Windsor Castle, Balmoral, and York Cottage, for the safe keeping of any jewels Her Majesty requires when travelling about. The keys remain in the Queen's possession, and are only handed to the Lady-in-Waiting on duty when required.