On September 8, 2022, the entire United Kingdom went into a process of heavy national mourning after the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, the longest-reigning monarch in British history. On September 12, the queen’s coffin — with the Crown of Scotland laid on top — was placed in St. Giles' Cathedral in Edinburgh, Scotland, where it was to lie in state for 24 hours.

The Crown of Scotland is one of the oldest and most important jewelry pieces in the United Kingdom — it was made for King James V and was later used in multiple Scottish coronations. The placing of the Crown of Scotland on the queen’s coffin actually has a purpose behind it.

The crown — along with the other Honours of Scotland — is ceremoniously used for significant purposes, and the death of Queen Elizabeth II is a matter important enough to require it. The crown itself is adorned with many pearls, amethysts, garnets, and gold, and it undoubtedly serves as a fitting tribute to the late monarch.