We love when Queen Elizabeth II does everyday things, like pets dogs or repeats outfits. But, we'll confess: we also adore when Her Majesty gets all blinged out in royal regalia.
The queen was on hand in London today to open state parliament and take part in political discourse, making her annual Queen’s Speech, sort of a royal state of the union. (Among her talking points: calling for major reform for the House of Lords.) You can click here to read the full text of the 2012 Queen's Speech.
And on to the style: because this was a very formal occasion, Her Majesty got to don a variety of crowns, including the Imperial State Crown containing -- are you ready? -- 2,868 diamonds, 273 pearls, 17 sapphires, 11 emeralds, and 5 rubies.
Her Majesty paired the crown with a cream ceremonial dress and a fur stole. She also arrived from Buckingham Palace via horsedrawn carriage, making for quite the photo opp.
Our only disappointment? No corgis appeared to be in attendance.
Check out photos of the queen's lavish ceremony below, and watch a short clip of her big speech.
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