Why is the Queen not wearing her crown? Incredible weight of £3 million crown
THE QUEEN is delivering her first major public ceremonial speech on Tuesday - but why was she not wearing her crown?
Queen: Expert discusses health following speech
The Queen, 95, lost her husband Prince Philip on April 9. On May 11 she attended Parliament to deliver the Queen's Speech which outlined the Government's plans for the upcoming year.
The Government set out its legislation and priorities for the year ahead on Tuesday.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the Government intends to "rocket boosters" under its levelling up agenda.
There were 30 pieces of legislation, many of which will be continued from the previous parliamentary session.
The Queen delivered the speech at the formal State Opening of Parliament.
READ MORE: Royal Family LIVE: Queen to make major announcement to nation today
Why is the Queen not wearing her crown?
Traditionally, a monarch wears the long crimson velvet Robe of State and the Imperial State Crown.
However, this year the Queen was not wearing the crown.
Instead, the Queen's St Edward's Crown travelled to Parliament ahead of her arrival on May 11.
Queen Elizabeth II dressed in "day dress" rather than her traditional ceremonial robes in accordance with Covid guidance.
The crown is adorned with more than 3,000 gemstones, 2,000 of which are diamonds.
The Imperial State Crown weighs a massive two pounds and 13 ounces.
Therefore it would likely hurt the Queen if she tried to wear it and could even break her neck.
The Queen's Speech lasts around 10 minutes on average which it too long for her to wear this crown.
It is estimated to worth around £3,196,360 according to personal finance blog SavingSpot which deconstructed the crown to estimate its worth.
DON'T MISS
When is the Queen's speech? State opening of Parliament this week [INSIGHT]
Queen's speech 2021: The adorable announcement the Queen will make [PICTURES]
Queen was first person in Commonwealth to earn life saving award at 14 [EXPLAINER]
The Imperial State Crown was walked into the House of Lords ahead of the Queen.
She walked into the chamber to the sound of trumpets.
The Prince of Wales held the hand of Her Majesty as she walked through the room.
The Queen sat upon the Great Throne in the House of Lords while her son and daughter-in-law, Prince Charles and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, sat to her left.
The Imperial State Crown is a symbol of the supremacy of the Monarchy.
In fact, the Imperial State Crown, seen today, is only ever seen during state openings of Parliament, or coronations.
The crown is not seen by the public otherwise.
It can only be touched by the Queen, the Archbishop of Canterbury and the Crown Jeweller - no one else is permitted to touch it.