I believe that the original caption indicated that the damask box/tray was Queen Mary's, so it might be more a case of old habits dying hard...
--Previous Message-- : : I agree that it makes sense that the tray is : merely a "basket" for conveying a : number of pieces. : But perhap not. It does have a soft cover! : : The modern staff might have : "modern" habits. : : : --Previous Message-- : Makes sense. : : : --Previous Message-- : I would suggest that the sapphires are not : stored thus; they are brought to Her Majesty : in this manner. They will be stored in : their proper fitted cases to ensure that : there is minimal damange to them. This is : merely an easier means of bringing to the : Queen the jewels that she has selected. : : :