One of the most prestigious horse racing events in the world, Royal Ascot holds a prominent place in the royal calendar.
Established in 1711 by Queen Anne, the event is not only a showcase of elite equestrian talent but also a significant social occasion for the British Royal Family, embodying a rich tradition of pageantry, fashion, and aristocratic elegance.
Multiple members of the Royal Family attended this year’s events at Ascot Racecourse, including Queen Camilla, who showcased some incredibly rare jewels throughout the week.
Fine jewellery and diamond experts at UK retailer Steven Stone have taken a close look at the four brooches that Queen Camilla flaunted at this year’s event.
The Prince Albert Brooch
Estimated value: £8,000,000
One of Queen Elizabeth II’s most special jewels was the Prince Albert brooch, which dates back to the 1800s.
In 1840, Prince Albert secretly commissioned Garrards to make a sapphire and diamond brooch for his bride to be, Victoria.
He gave her the brooch on the night of their wedding, and was so adored by Victoria, that she wore it frequently.
After being passed down to Queen Elizabeth II, it became a staple accessory and featured in many of her most iconic outfits.
Queen Mary’s Turquoise Brooch
Estimated value: £40,000
Queen Camilla paid tribute to the late Queen Elizabeth II by donning her turquoise and diamond filigree brooch. This historic piece was originally a wedding gift to Queen Mary from her in-laws in 1893 and, like much of her jewellery, was later passed down to Queen Elizabeth II.
The brooch features a round-cut turquoise at its center, a stone traditionally associated with healing and peace. Although Queen Elizabeth II did not publicly wear the brooch until 2014, she notably chose it for her address to the nation during the pandemic in April 2020 – a period marked by great uncertainty.
Queen Camilla’s choice of this brooch may hold significant meaning. With King Charles and the Princess of Wales still recovering from cancer treatment and the nation gearing up for next month’s election, the brooch symbolises resilience and hope amidst challenging times.
Delhi Carved Emerald Brooch
Estimated value: £150,000
On Day 3, Queen Camilla wore the Delhi Carved Emerald Brooch, which was originally gifted to Queen Mary to commemorate her royal visit to India in 1911.
The exquisite piece, set in platinum and yellow gold, features a large hexagon-shaped emerald surrounded by round-cut diamonds. The emerald is uniquely carved with a rose on the front and an unidentified plant on the back, enhancing its distinctive charm.
This is another of Queen Mary’s jewels that was passed down to Queen Elizabeth II and is now in Queen Camilla’s possession. Although Queen Elizabeth II inherited the brooch in 1953 following her grandmother’s passing, she rarely wore it due to its substantial weight.
The Jardine Star Brooch
Estimated value: £120,000
In 1981, Queen Elizabeth II inherited a late-Victorian diamond star brooch from Lady Jardine. The brooch’s maker remains unknown, as does the identity of Lady Jardine herself.
It’s obvious that Queen Elizabeth II was fond of the brooch as she wore it fairly regularly – including at high-profile appearances like holiday church services, Christmas broadcasts and during the Diamond Jubilee River Pageant.
Shaped like a star, the brooch features over thirty round-cut diamonds, with nine arranged in a floral pattern at its center.
“Several members of the Royal Family graced this year’s events at Ascot Racecourse, among them Queen Camilla, who captivated with a selection of exceptionally rare jewels, including four seldom-seen brooches.
For Day 1, Queen Camilla wore the Prince Albert brooch. Commissioned by Prince Albert in 1840 for his Bride to be, the brooch contains a large oval or cushion shaped sapphire, which is at least 40cts. The breath-taking gem is also surrounded by 12 large diamonds, which look to be around 12cts. Due to the clarity and intense colour of the sapphire it was possible sourced from Burma. If it was to be sold today, it would be worth around £8,000,000, thanks to its historic legacy.
For her second trip to the racecourse, Queen Camilla wore Queen Elizabeth II’s turquoise and diamond filigree brooch, which showcases a round cut turquoise at its centre – a stone that’s long been associated with healing and peace. I’d estimate the intricate piece to be worth £40,000.
On Day 3, Queen Camilla adorned her all-white outfit with the Delhi Carved Emerald Brooch. Set in platinum and yellow gold, the brooch features a large hexagon-shaped emerald surrounded by round-cut diamonds. The emerald is uniquely carved with a rose on the front and an unidentified plant on the back, adding to its distinct charm. Historical and truly spectacular, I’d estimate the piece to be worth £150,000.
Last but certainly not least is the Jardine Star brooch. Shaped like a star, it boasts over thirty round-cut diamonds, with nine arranged in a floral pattern at its centre. I’d estimate the late-victorian piece to be worth £120,000.
All together, the brooches that Queen Camilla wore are worth just over £8.3 million.”
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.
Follow us on our socials
Pop over to our social platforms to keep up to date with Steven Stone’s latest jewellery content and news.
