Scandi Sparkler Spectacular: Danish Rubies vs Golden Poppies

Will it be the rubies or the poppies???

The Danish Ruby Parure Tiara vs. The Golden Poppies

The Danish Ruby Parure Tiara

This tiara began its life as a series of hair combs, purchased by Jean-Baptiste Bernadotte for his wife, Desiree, to wear at Napoleon’s coronation in 1804. When Bernadotte was elected King of Sweden, the rubies became royal jewels. The combs were made into a bandeau by Queen Alexandrine of Denmark, who had received them from her mother-in-law, Lovisa of Sweden. Queen Ingrid turned the bandeau into a grand wreath tiara, which is now worn by Crown Princess Mary of Denmark.

The Golden Poppies

Queen Margrethe II of Denmark herself commissioned this unusual headpiece, which was made in 1976 by Arje Griegst. The poppies are made of gold and attached to a comb that sinks into the wearer’s hair, allowing the flowers to scatter across Margrethe’s locks. The flowers are also studded with gems — including aquamarines, moonstones, and opals — and insects. So far, Margrethe has been the only wearer of the piece, which is part of a parure that also includes earrings and a necklace.

More Danish tiaras coming your way this afternoon!