Not content with the normal life of royal duties, Prince Edward has had a variety of careers throughout his life.
In the early 2000’s, shortly after Queen Elizabeth II’s Golden Jubilee, the Earl of Wessex and his wife Sophie, the countess of Wessex, took on the role of full time royals and have undoubtedly played their roles within the royal family well ever since.
Prince Edward originally met Sophie in 1987 when she was working for Capital Radio, though they didn’t begin dating until 1993. The royal couple married at St George’s Chapel inside the walls of Windsor Castle on 19th June 1999.
To celebrate Prince Edward’s birthday on 10th March, fine jewellery and engagement ring experts at Steven Stone have taken a close look at the exquisite necklace and earrings that Edward gifted to Sophie on their wedding day.
Despite the wedding being the last millennium, the royal wedding was a modest affair. Though the nuptials were still an impressive television moment, attracting 200 million viewers.
Always setting the trends, Sophie wore a Samantha Shaw coat-style gown that was decorated with over 325,000 pearls and crystal beads – some of which lined her V-neck, cuffs and skirt while others dotted across the fabric.
The countess of Wessex accesorised with a full-length veil made of silk tulle and crystals, which was held in place by her beautiful diamond tiara – the Anthemion tiara, which was chosen from Queen Elizabeth II’s private jewellery collection.
Of course, it was her jewellery that we couldn’t take our eyes off and she finished her look with a black and white pearl necklace, and matching drop earrings.
Sophie’s necklace and earrings were a wedding gift from Prince Edward. The royal had them made by Asprey and Garrard, who were also responsible for Sophie’s engagement ring.
Reportedly designed by the Prince, both pieces combine white and black pearl and the necklace features a cross pendant.
Pearls have always had a connection with royalty, with Queen Elizabeth especially known for her love of the radiant gemstone – the late monarch’s love of pearls is something that she passed on to her daughter, Princess Anne, who has been wearing a pair of pearl earrings since the 1960’s.
Both Kate Middleton and Camilla are also frequently seen sporting pearl jewellery.
With this in mind, our experts estimate the necklace to be worth $30,000 and the matching earrings to be worth $5,000.
“The unsung hero of style, Sophie Wessex stunned on her wedding day and we couldn’t take our eyes off her necklace and earrings.
Designed by Prince Edward himself, both pieces combine white and black pearls, with the necklace featuring a bold cross pendant. Pearls have always had a connection with royalty and Kate Middleton, Princess Anne and Camilla are regularly seen sporting the radiant gemstone.
The matching pieces were made by Asprey and Garrard, which adds to the sentimental value as they were also responsible for Sophie’s engagement ring – a trilogy ring worth $128,000 that features a two-carat central oval diamond, flanked by two smaller heart-shaped diamonds.
I’d estimate Sophie’s wedding necklace to be worth $30,000 and the matching earrings to be worth an additional $5,000.”
zack stone, managing director, steven stone
If you’re looking for jewellery to rival royalty, our team can design bespoke creations, tailored to you. From engagement rings and wedding rings to necklaces and pendants, your options are endless.
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