The phrase "Jewel in the Crown" refers to India, considered by many to be the most valuable and prestigious possession of the British Empire. The pronunciation of "Jewel" is /dʒuːəl/, with the "j" sound represented by the IPA symbol /dʒ/ and the unstressed "e" pronounced as a schwa sound /ə/. The pronunciation of "Crown" is /kraʊn/, with the "ow" sound represented by the IPA symbol /aʊ/. This phrase has been used to describe the importance of India to the British Empire in the past.
The phrase "Jewel in the Crown" refers to a valuable and cherished possession or asset that holds significant importance within a larger context. This idiom originates from the period of British colonial rule in India during the 19th and early 20th centuries. During this time, India was considered the "Crown Jewel" of the British Empire, as it was the most prominent and strategically important colony.
Metaphorically, "Jewel in the Crown" is often used to describe something that is highly coveted or cherished, representing the pinnacle of achievement or contributing greatly to the success of a larger whole. It implies that the item or element in question is central to the overall value, prosperity, or identity of an entity or system.
The phrase has been adapted in various contexts beyond the British Empire, such as in business and popular culture, to denote an essential or key aspect that distinguishes and enhances the overall worth or pride of an organization, project, or individual. For instance, in business, a successful flagship product can be referred to as the "Jewel in the Crown" of a company's product line.
Overall, "Jewel in the Crown" exemplifies the notion of a highly valuable and central aspect that holds immense significance, much like a precious gem within a crown, making it an integral part of the larger whole.