Kate Middleton attended the annual St Patrick’s Parade in Aldershot this morning – and she was wearing a very special brooch.
Prince William – the outgoing Colonel of the regiment attended the parade alongside his wife, the incoming Colonel. Today marked Kate’s first time at the event in the role, with all eyes on the Princess as she presented sprigs of shamrock to the officers and guardsmen.
A vision in turquoise, the Princess of Wales wore a structured Catherine Walker coat alongside a brooch in the shape of a shamrock, that has become a favourite among fans.
Taking a close look at the brooch, fine jewellery experts at Steven Stone have revealed everything you need to know about it – including its value, history and which other royals have proudly worn it.
Loaned to members of the royal family by the Irish Guards in celebration of St. Patrick’s Day, Kate first wore this shamrock shaped brooch to a medal parade for the regiment at Victoria Barracks in 2011. The parade took place shortly after her wedding she’s reported to have exclusively worn the brooch ever since.
Made from 18 carat yellow gold, it features a tiny, single emerald at the centre of the textured leaves and has an estimated value of £2,250 ($3,000).
Believed to have been designed by Cartier, the brooch was reportedly presented to Princess Mary by the regiment in 1961. After her passing in 1965, the brooch was purchased by the regiment at an auction of her personal jewellery.
It’s since been worn by both the Queen Mother and Princess Anne – the Queen Mother was pictured wearing the piece in 2000 and following her death in 2002, Princess Anne appeared to wear the pin annually on St Patrick’s Day.
As well as to St Patrick’s Day celebrations, Kate has also worn the brooch on several visits to Northern Ireland.
Adding to the symbolic nature of the brooch, it’s the first brooch that the Princess ever wore in an official capacity as a royal. Further sentiment also lies in the inclusion of emerald, which is Kate’s birthstone.
“Loaned to members of the royal family by the Irish Guards in celebration of St. Patrick’s Day, Kate first wore this shamrock brooch shortly after her wedding in 2011 and is reported to have exclusively worn it since then.
Believed to have been designed by Cartier, the piece is made from 18 carat yellow gold and features a tiny, single emerald at the centre of the textured leaves.
Previously worn by the Queen Mother and Princess Anne, Kate has worn the brooch on several visits to Northern Ireland, as well as to St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. The piece no doubt holds further significance for the Princess of Wales, as it’s the first brooch that she ever wore in an official capacity as a royal.
I’d estimate this simple yet stunning brooch to be worth £2,250 ($3,000).”
maxwell stone, creative director, steven stone
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