Kate Middleton Honors Royals With Historic Funeral Jewelry

Kate Middleton wore a historic pearl choker to a royal funeral on September 16. The Duchess of Cambridge attended the service for Katharine, Duchess of Kent at Westminster Cathedral. Her choice of jewelry paid a silent, powerful tribute.

The four-strand pearl necklace was a favorite of the late Queen Elizabeth II. According to People, Kate has worn the same piece to other significant royal mourning events.

Symbolism Behind the Somber Accessory

The pearl choker features a striking diamond clasp. Queen Elizabeth first wore it publicly during a 1983 state visit to Bangladesh.

Pearls hold deep symbolic meaning for the British royal family. They are traditionally associated with periods of mourning. Kate’s choice was both respectful and deeply personal.

She previously wore this necklace to funerals for Prince Philip and Queen Elizabeth. This consistent use reinforces its role as her go-to accessory for solemn occasions.

A Royal Tradition of Mourning Jewels

The tradition of mourning pearls dates back centuries. Queen Victoria popularized the custom after Prince Albert’s death in 1861. She wore black and pearls for the remaining forty years of her life.

Queen Elizabeth II also had a profound connection to pearls. Her father, King George VI, started a pearl necklace for her as a child. He added two pearls to it each year for her birthday.

This history makes pearls a dignified alternative to colorful gemstones during grief. They represent a quiet, understated form of respect.

A Historic Farewell Service

The funeral itself was a significant event in modern royal history. Katharine, Duchess of Kent passed away on September 4 at the age of 92. She was the first royal family member to have a Catholic funeral service in living memory.

The ceremony was also the first royal funeral held at Westminster Cathedral since it opened in 1903. King Charles III attended the service, while Queen Camilla was absent due to illness.

Kate Middleton’s fashion choice honored the deceased duchess and the late queen. It seamlessly blended personal tribute with longstanding royal protocol.

Kate Middleton’s pearl choker served as a poignant link between the monarchy’s past and its present. This elegant accessory underscored a day of historic royal mourning.

Info at your fingertips

What pearl choker did Kate Middleton wear?

She wore a four-strand pearl choker with a diamond clasp. This specific piece was famously worn by Queen Elizabeth II on numerous official occasions.

Why do royals wear pearls for mourning?

Pearls symbolize dignity and restraint during periods of grief. The tradition was cemented by Queen Victoria and continues to be observed by modern royals like Kate.

Was the Duchess of Kent’s funeral unusual?

Yes, it was historically significant. It was the first Catholic funeral for a royal family member in modern times and the first ever held at Westminster Cathedral.

Has Kate worn this necklace before?

Yes, she has worn it to several high-profile events. This includes the state funerals for both Prince Philip and Queen Elizabeth II.

Who was the Duchess of Kent?

Katharine, Duchess of Kent was the wife of Prince Edward, Duke of Kent. She was a first cousin of the late Queen Elizabeth II and passed away at age 92.