Crown Gems: The Regent Diamond and Other Jewels

The Galerie d'Apollon at the Louvre houses one of the most prestigious collections in France: the Crown Jewels . Among these treasures, the famous Regent Diamond , considered one of the most beautiful precious stones in the world, reigns supreme. Discovered in 1701 in India, this diamond adorned the crown of Louis XV and has spanned the history of France, from the monarchy to the emperors.

An exceptional royal collection

In addition to the Regent Diamond, the Galerie d'Apollon contains other precious jewels that belonged to French kings and emperors. The pieces on display embody not only the wealth but also the power of the sovereigns who wore them. The splendor of the gallery, decorated by Charles Le Brun , creates a setting worthy of the magnificence of the treasures on display.

This collection is today a testimony to the opulence of the French monarchies and attracts thousands of visitors each year, dazzled by the beauty of the stones and the fascinating history that accompanies them.

To extend this sumptuous experience, explore our online gallery , where you will find creations inspired by the luxury and elegance of royal treasures.

The precious stones of the Crown of France are one of the most fascinating treasures on display at the Louvre. These jewels, which have a rich and tumultuous history, symbolize both the power and prestige of the kings and queens of France.

Origin and composition:

• The Crown Jewels were established during the reign of Francis I in the 16th century and enriched by each successive monarch. They include crowns , tiaras , swords , and parures adorned with precious stones such as diamonds , rubies , emeralds , and sapphires .
• Among the most famous are the Regent , a 140-carat diamond considered one of the most beautiful in the world, and the Sword of Charlemagne , a symbol of imperial power, decorated with precious stones.

A turbulent history:

• The Crown's precious stones have been through many upheavals. During the French Revolution , in 1792, some of these treasures were stolen from the Garde-Meuble de la Couronne. Although some jewels were recovered, others were lost forever.
• The remaining stones were partially sold in the 19th century, after the fall of the Second Empire. However, a significant portion of the jewels was preserved and exhibited to the public.

The jewels at the Louvre:

• Today, several of these gemstones are on display in the Galerie d'Apollon at the Louvre, where visitors can admire the magnificence of these symbols of royalty.
• The Regent Diamond, mounted in the sword of Napoleon I , is one of the centerpieces of this collection. It was worn by the Emperor during his coronation in 1804.

Symbolism and heritage:

• The Crown's gemstones are not just luxury items; they embody the absolute power and glory of the French monarchs. Each jewel tells a part of the history of France, marking events such as coronations, royal marriages, or conquests.

An intact fascination:

• The public is still fascinated by these legendary jewels, and their presence at the Louvre makes them accessible to all, recalling the splendor of the royal courts of yesteryear.

The Crown's precious stones continue to dazzle visitors from around the world, eternal symbols of the grandeur and prestige of the sovereigns of France.