Queen Camilla’s latest royal engagement took her to East London, where she officially opened a new secondary school.
During the visit, she spoke with teachers and students, touring the facilities and learning about how the school is empowering young people to develop the skills needed for successful futures.
The royal looked effortlessly chic in a navy pinstripe blazer and matching skirt for the occasion, accessorising with black leather gloves and suede knee-high boots. Of course, it was her accessories that truly caught our eye, and we couldn’t help but notice the intriguing insect brooch adorning her lapel.
Eager to delve deeper into its craftsmanship and significance, fine jewellery and diamond experts at UK retailer Steven Stone have wasted no time in examining the intricacies of this delicate piece and uncovering its secrets.
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“Queen Camilla’s latest brooch has continued to spark fascination among royal fashion enthusiasts and jewellery experts, who first saw the piece in March 2024 when Her Majesty wore it during a visit to Shrewsbury.
Resembling a horsefly, the stunning accessory is expertly crafted from yellow gold. The insect’s body and eyes are adorned with sapphires, while its wings sparkle with diamonds.
The brooch’s origin remains a mystery. Given Queen Camilla’s inheritance of Queen Elizabeth II’s vast jewellery collection after her passing, speculation suggests that it could be one of the late monarch’s earliest acquisitions – a diamond bee brooch featuring a cabochon sapphire.
Wearing the brooch during her tour of Mulberry Academy, where she met students involved in a leadership programme, carries particular symbolism. While horseflies are not traditionally linked to leadership, they are known for their persistence and relentlessness – qualities often associated with strong leadership.
Taking all this into account, I’d estimate the brooch’s value to be around £5,000.”
maxwell stone, creative director, steven stone
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