The 1979 state visit of Queen Elizabeth II to Denmark was a dazzling display of royal fashion and jewelry, with the Queen's choice of accessories reflecting her personal style and the historical ties between the two monarchies. This visit, marked by the Queen's sparkling appearance in a Norman Hartnell evening gown and a unique tiara, offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of history, culture, and personal expression in the royal world.
One of the most striking aspects of the Queen's ensemble was her choice of jewelry, which included the Burmese Ruby Tiara and the Baring Ruby Necklace. The Burmese Ruby Tiara, crafted by Garrard at the Queen's direction, is a testament to her attention to detail and her desire to create a piece that would reflect the national colors of Denmark. The tiara was made from diamonds from a dismantled Cartier tiara and rubies that were a wedding gift from the colonial government of Burma, symbolizing the historical connections between the two countries.
The Baring Ruby Necklace, acquired by the Queen in the 1960s, is another example of her commitment to collecting and wearing jewelry that has personal significance. The necklace's ruby stones, which were originally part of the Baring Collection, add a touch of elegance and sophistication to her overall look. The combination of these two pieces of jewelry not only showcases the Queen's taste but also highlights her ability to create a cohesive and striking ensemble.
The Queen's choice of accessories was not only a display of her personal style but also a reflection of the historical ties between the two monarchies. The visit took place seven years after Margrethe's accession to the throne, and the two women were descendants of King Christian IX of Denmark and Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom. This shared heritage is evident in the Queen's choice of jewelry, which echoes the national colors of Denmark and reflects the historical connections between the two countries.
In my opinion, the 1979 state visit to Denmark was a remarkable example of how jewelry can be used to create a cohesive and striking ensemble. The Queen's choice of accessories, including the Burmese Ruby Tiara and the Baring Ruby Necklace, not only showcased her personal style but also highlighted the historical ties between the two monarchies. This visit remains a memorable moment in royal fashion history, offering a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of history, culture, and personal expression in the royal world.
