Queen Elizabeth II’s reign was marked not only by her leadership but also by an exquisite collection of jewellery that tells the story of her monarchy, her life, and the deep significance behind each piece. From diamonds that sparkle with history to gifts imbued with sentimental value, these pieces offer a glimpse into the personal side of the Queen.
As we celebrate her life, let's take a closer look at 12 of the most iconic pieces in her jewellery collection, from their estimated values to the heart-warming tales behind them.
1. Diamond Diadem
Estimated Value: £6,000,000
Notable Appearances: Worn for the 1952 Royal Portrait, her first State Opening of Parliament in 1952, and multiple royal events.
The Diamond Diadem is perhaps the most recognizable of the Queen’s pieces, famously featured on UK postage stamps between 1953 and 1971. Created for King George IV’s coronation in 1821, it features 1,333 brilliant-cut diamonds set in a band of pearls. The headpiece has a rich royal history, passed down through monarchs, and is a symbol of continuity and heritage. The diadem has become synonymous with Queen Elizabeth, marking the beginning of her reign.
2. Flame-Lily Brooch
Estimated Value: £20,000
Notable Appearances: Commonwealth tour in 1952, Christmas Speech in 2011, and Royal Ascot in 2017.
A gift from the children of Zimbabwe, this brooch in the shape of the Flame Lily is a particularly sentimental piece. The Queen received it for her 21st birthday and wore it during pivotal moments in her life, including after the passing of her father, King George VI. The Flame-Lily Brooch has been a constant in her collection, both beautiful and deeply meaningful.
3. Cullinan III and IV Brooch
Estimated Value: £50,000,000
Notable Appearances: 1958 State Visit to the Netherlands and Diamond Jubilee in 2012.
This stunning brooch is made from two stones cut from the famed Cullinan Diamond, the largest gem-quality diamond ever found. The 94.4-carat Cullinan III and the 63-carat Cullinan IV were gifted to Queen Mary in 1910 and later passed down to Queen Elizabeth II. The rare diamonds are set in a platinum brooch, one of the most valuable pieces in the Queen's collection.
4. Scarab Brooch
Estimated Value: £250,000
Notable Appearances: Bournemouth Town Hall in 1966, Golden Jubilee tour in 2002, and Prince Philip’s memorial service in 2022.
Gifted by Prince Philip in 1966, the Scarab Brooch is a one-of-a-kind creation featuring cabochon rubies and a striking yellow gold setting. It stands out as one of the most unique pieces in the Queen’s jewellery collection. Its symbolism is rich, evoking themes of love, passion, and protection, making it a deeply personal and sentimental gift from her husband.
5. Nizam of Hyderabad Necklace
Estimated Value: £65,000,000
Notable Appearances: 1952 Royal Variety Performance, Golden Jubilee Dinner in 2002.
This magnificent necklace was a wedding gift from the Nizam of Hyderabad, one of the wealthiest individuals of the time. Designed by Cartier, it features over 50 diamonds set in a floral motif. The Queen wore it on numerous significant occasions, and its rare, intricate design makes it one of her most valuable pieces.
6. Three-Strand Pearl Necklace
Estimated Value: £1,000,000
Notable Appearances: 2022 70th Anniversary Celebration.
Pearls have always been a staple in Queen Elizabeth’s collection, and her three-strand pearl necklace is one of her signature pieces. The tradition of receiving a pearl for each birthday began with Queen Victoria, and the Queen followed suit. The three-strand necklace, adorned with natural pearls, is one of the most iconic and valued pieces in her collection, carrying the legacy of generations of royal women.
7. Burmese Ruby Tiara
Estimated Value: £7,000,000
Notable Appearances: State Banquet with Donald Trump in 2019.
Commissioned in 1973, the Burmese Ruby Tiara was made using 96 rubies given to the Queen by the people of Burma. Rubies are believed to have protective qualities, and this tiara, designed by House of Garrard, features rubies set in diamond motifs. The tiara was not only a beautiful piece but also one with deep cultural significance. Its stunning design made it one of the Queen's most talked-about pieces.
8. King George VI Sapphire Suite
Estimated Value: £8,000,000
Notable Appearances: Midnight Matinee in 1951, Canadian Royal Portrait in 2019.
The King George VI Sapphire Suite is one of the Queen’s most treasured jewels, a gift from her father. The suite includes a necklace and matching earrings, featuring a stunning collection of sapphires and diamonds. The set was later altered to create a pendant, making it even more personal. It remains one of her most enduring and valuable pieces.
9. Prince Albert Brooch
Estimated Value: £8,000,000
Notable Appearances: Royal Ascot in 2013, State Visit to Germany in 2015.
The Prince Albert Brooch was a wedding gift from Prince Albert to Queen Victoria in 1840. Featuring a large sapphire surrounded by diamonds, it was later passed down to Queen Elizabeth II and became a staple in her collection. The brooch, with its historical significance, is believed to have inspired Kate Middleton’s engagement ring, further cementing its place in royal history.
10. Lover’s Knot Tiara
Estimated Value: £1,500,000
Notable Appearances: Often worn by Princess Diana and later Kate Middleton.
Although not originally the Queen’s, the Lover’s Knot Tiara is one of her most iconic pieces, often worn by her daughter-in-law, Princess Diana, and now Kate Middleton. The tiara, featuring pearls and diamonds, was gifted to Queen Elizabeth by Queen Mary and became a beloved piece in the royal collection.
11. The Queen’s Cufflinks
Estimated Value: £300,000
Notable Appearances: Worn during various personal appearances and events.
Among the Queen’s collection of accessories, the cufflinks she often wears are of notable significance. They are often understated yet elegant, with many designed by bespoke jewellers. These accessories are a personal favourite of the Queen and a staple of her daily wardrobe.
12. The Coronation Necklace
Estimated Value: £5,000,000
Notable Appearances: During the Queen's coronation in 1953.
This necklace, worn during the Queen’s coronation, consists of a stunning collection of diamonds and was designed to complement the coronation crown. It is another example of the Queen’s refined taste in jewellery, playing an important role in royal ceremonies and events.
Queen Elizabeth II’s jewellery collection is not only a symbol of the monarchy’s grandeur but also a reflection of the deep personal connections she held with each piece. These jewels are more than just accessories—they are stories, memories, and symbols of history that will continue to capture the imagination for generations to come.