THE coronet of a marquess is a silver-gilt circlet with four strawberry leaves around it, alternating with four silver balls, known as pearls, on points.
The coronet itself is chased as if in the form of jewels (like a royal crown) but is not actually jewelled.
It has a crimson cap (lined ermine) in real life and a purple one in heraldic representation, and a golden tassel on top.
The alternation of strawberry leaves and pearls is what distinguishes a marquess's coronet from those of other ranks.
Coronets were customarily worn at coronations.
They can, however, still be seen depicted on peers' coats-of-arms as a badge of rank within the five degrees of the hereditary peerage.
The coronet of a marchioness sits on top of the head (instead of around it).
A marquess is a peer of the second degree in the peerage, ranking above an earl and below a duke.
First published in May, 2010.
1 comment :
I occasionally wear my coronet when I'm gardening. VC
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