Regalia

The insignia of royalty, in particular those of a coronation.

Illustrated are the Royal insignia of England (the Crown Jewels):

1. St Edward's Crown.

2. The Ampulla is a golden eagle flask which holds the holy oil used in the anointing; the spoon is the oldest piece in the regalia, probably made for Henry II or Richard I.

3. The Sovereign's Orb representing Christian sovereignty (the Sovereign being the head of the Church of England) is placed in the Sovereign's right hand.

4. The jewelled Sword of Offering.

5. The Spurs representing knighthood and chivalry.

6. The Sceptre with Dove - or Rod of Equity and Mercy - symbolising the Sovereign's spiritual role.

7. The Sceptre with the Cross, symbolising the Sovereign's temporal power under the Cross, is placed in the Sovereign's left hand.

8. The Coronation Ring representing kingly dignity.

9. The Armills (gold bracelets) representing sincerity and wisdom.