Queen Elizabeth II was renowned for her exquisite jewellery collection, often using it to convey subtle messages throughout her reign. This tradition continues with the royal ladies, who honoured her legacy on Commonwealth Day by thoughtfully selecting accessories as a tribute.
The Prince and Princess of Wales, the Princess Royal, and the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester joined King Charles III and Queen Camilla for the Commonwealth Day Service at Westminster Abbey. While all looked impeccably elegant, it was Princess Anne and Kate Middleton’s jewellery choices that stood out – Kate wore a pearl necklace once belonging to Queen Elizabeth II, while Anne’s necklace was a cherished gift from her late mother.
In the evening, the King and Queen attended a reception at Marlborough House as guests of the Commonwealth Secretary-General, Baroness Scotland. Queen Camilla looked regal in royal blue, elegantly accessorising with a dazzling brooch that not only once belonged to the late Queen but also showcases one of the most valuable sapphires in the royal collection.
Leading diamond experts at UK retailer Steven Stone have unveiled fascinating insights into these exquisite pieces, from their rich histories to their all-important price tags.
“The royal ladies paid a touching tribute to Queen Elizabeth II on this year’s Commonwealth Day through their carefully chosen jewellery, each piece rich with history and sentiment.
Kate Middleton honoured Queen Elizabeth II with a beloved pearl choker from the late Queen’s 80s and 90s collection. Made from cultured pearls gifted by the Japanese government, the necklace offers the same lustre as natural pearls, though it is less rare. It was also previously worn by Princess Diana at a state banquet in the Netherlands. The necklace holds significant sentimental value for Kate, who also wore it at both Prince Philip’s and Queen Elizabeth II’s funerals. I’d estimate it to be worth £23,000 ($26,300).
Princess Anne wore a large diamond and yellow gold brooch that’s been identified as her stalactite brooch. Created by Andrew Grima, it’s been in her jewellery box since 1973. It’s a particularly sentimental piece for Anne as she received it from her Mother as a wedding gift when she tied the knot with her first husband, Captain Mark Phillips. I’d estimate it to be worth £16,000 ($20,000).
Queen Camilla added to the poignant display by donning the stunning Russian Sapphire Cluster Brooch, a regal heirloom passed down through generations. Originally owned by Empress Marie Feodorovna of Russia, the brooch was inherited by Queen Elizabeth after Queen Mary’s passing and later worn by the Queen Mother. The brooch features 18 large diamonds surrounding a smaller, detailed gold setting, with a large 8 to 10-carat sapphire stone in the centre. One of the most exquisite and valuable royal sapphires, i’d estimate it to be worth £500,000 ($680,000).
These timeless pieces not only celebrate Queen Elizabeth II’s legacy but also highlight the enduring power of royal tradition.”
maxwell stone, creative director, steven stone
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