King Charles and Queen Camilla have just completed a two-day visit to Canada. Their visit began on Monday with a warm welcome in Ottawa, which included an official airport ceremony, a ceremonial tree planting, and even a puck drop at a street hockey game.
On Tuesday, King Charles made history by delivering the Speech from the Throne to Canada’s Parliament – the first time a reigning monarch has done so since Queen Elizabeth II in 1977. His arrival to the senate building was marked by cheers of “God Save the King” and a ceremonial 21-gun salute.
As always, Queen Camilla’s jewellery choices were a standout. She wore pieces rich in symbolism and sentiment: on Monday, she sported her diamond maple leaf brooch, and yesterday she wore the Queen’s Own Rifles of Canada brooch.
Fine jewellery and diamond experts at Steven Stone have revealed what we know about them.
Canadian Maple Leaf Brooch
Estimated Value: £30,000
During their landmark state visit to Canada in 1939, King George VI presented his wife, Queen Elizabeth – later known as the Queen Mother – with a dazzling diamond brooch to commemorate the significance of the tour. The gift was both a personal token and a diplomatic gesture, honouring the close ties between the Crown and Canada.
Known as the Canadian Maple-Leaf Brooch, this exquisite piece was crafted by the prestigious British jeweller Asprey. It is designed in the shape of a sugar maple leaf – the official national emblem of Canada – and features an intricate arrangement of brilliant-cut diamonds set in gleaming platinum. Its design not only reflects Canada’s national identity but also exemplifies the elegance and craftsmanship of royal jewellery.
Upon Queen Elizabeth’s passing, the brooch was inherited by her daughter, Queen Elizabeth II, who frequently wore it as a tribute to Canada. It became a signature piece during Canadian-themed events, particularly on Canada Day. The late Queen last wore the brooch in July 2021 during a virtual audience with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau – an appearance that underscored her enduring affection for the country.
Queen’s Own Rifles of Canada Brooch
Estimated Value: £100,000
The Queen’s Own Rifles of Canada brooch is a remarkable and symbolic item within Queen Camilla’s collection of royal jewellery, representing her longstanding honorary affiliation with the historic regiment. Meticulously crafted in silver and set with sparkling diamonds, the brooch prominently features the regiment’s distinctive cap badge – a stylized bugle horn – an emblem long associated with military tradition and ceremonial prestige.
This elegant piece was formally presented to Her Majesty in 2012 by General Sir Patrick Sanders, who was serving at the time as Colonel Commandant of The Rifles. The occasion marked her appointment as Colonel-in-Chief of the regiment, a ceremonial role of great honour and significance. Since receiving it, Queen Camilla has frequently worn the brooch during official events and public ceremonies, notably including state occasions and royal visits to Canada, where she visibly affirms her connection to the regiment.
“The Canadian Maple Leaf Brooch is more than just a beautiful piece of jewellery – it’s a powerful symbol of the enduring friendship between the UK and Canada. Originally gifted to the Queen Mother in 1939 during a state visit, the Asprey-designed brooch, made of platinum and diamonds in the shape of the national maple leaf, has since been worn by three generations of royal women. Its continued use, including Queen Elizabeth II’s appearance with it in 2021 and its loan to the Princess of Wales for her 2011 Canadian tour, reflects its deep diplomatic and sentimental value – both historically and today. Estimated at £30,000, its true worth lies in its legacy.
The Queen’s Own Rifles of Canada brooch is a meaningful and distinguished piece of royal jewellery, symbolising her deep and enduring association with the regiment. Crafted in silver and embellished with diamonds, it’s adorned with the regiment’s iconic bugle horn cap badge. The brooch was presented to her in 2012 by General Sir Patrick Sanders, then Colonel Commandant of The Rifles, to mark her appointment as Colonel-in-Chief. Since then, Queen Camilla has worn it on numerous ceremonial occasions, including during official visits to Canada. I’d estimate it to be worth around £100,000.”
maxwell stone, creative director, steven stone
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