Resplendent in its elegance and steeped in royal history, Queen Elizabeth II’s Great Britain and Ireland tiara is a crown jewel of regal sophistication.
This iconic tiara – worn by the late monarch on numerous occasions – encapsulates the timeless charm and symbolic significance that defines the British monarchy’s rich heritage.
Fine jewellery and diamond experts at UK retailer Steven Stone have delved into the captivating tale behind the Great Britain and Ireland Tiara, exploring the artistry and tradition that makes it a cherished symbol of royal splendor.
A family heirloom, the ‘Girls of Great Britain and Ireland’ tiara has been in the Royal Family’s possession since the late 19th Century and made frequent appearances during Queen Elizabeth II’s 70 year reign.
The history of the late monarch’s favourite diadem goes back to the early 1890′s, when it was gifted to Princess Mary of Teck – the daughter of one of Queen Victoria’s cousins – on her wedding day. It was presented to Queen Elizabeth II by a committee representing the Girls of Great Britain and Ireland in 1947, on the occasion of her marriage to Prince Philip.
The tiara takes its name from the committee of women who raised money for its creation. They purchased the tiara, which features festoon and fleur-de-lis designs, from Garrard in June 1893. The tiara was made of diamonds set in silver and gold and topped by fourteen pearls.
In 1914, Mary decided to tweak the tiara by having Garrard remove the pearls from the top of the tiara and replace them with 13 brilliant diamonds. The base of the tiara was also removed around this time so that it could be worn separately as a bandeau.
Our experts estimate the tiara to be worth £8,500,000 ($10,000,000).
“The Girls of Great Britain and Ireland Tiara has graced the Royal Family’s possession since the late 19th Century. A symbol of enduring elegance, it was presented to Queen Elizabeth II by a committee representing the Girls of Great Britain and Ireland in 1947, on the occasion of her marriage to Prince Philip. Symbolising not only her wedding but also her enduring reign, the piece made frequent appearances throughout the late monarch’s remarkable 70-year reign.
Originally gifted to Princess Mary of Teck – the daughter of one of Queen Victoria’s cousins – on her wedding day, the resplendent tiara was originally crafted with diamonds set in silver and gold and crowned with fourteen pearls. In 1914, Mary decided to tweak the tiara by having Garrard remove the pearls from the top of the tiara and replace them with 13 brilliant diamonds.
Recently donned by Queen Camilla, its estimated worth stands at a majestic £8,500,000 ($10,000,000) – a testament to its historical significance and enduring sparkle.”
MAXWELL STONE, CREATIVE DIRECTOR, STEVEN STONE
The ‘Girls of Great Britain and Ireland’ tiara has graced the heads of several distinguished members of the royal family – including Queen Camilla.
Queen Camilla made her debut in the tiara during a special reception at Mansion House in October 2023. She wore it for a second time earlier this month, for the annual Diplomatic Reception at Buckingam Palace.
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