Kate Middleton’s Largest Tiara Debut Steals Spotlight at Windsor State Dinner

The Princess of Wales made a dazzling return to high jewelry. Kate Middleton wore an historic, diamond-encrusted tiara to a state banquet on December 3. The event was held at Windsor Castle with Prince William by her side.

This was not just any royal accessory. It was Queen Victoria’s Oriental Circlet Tiara, last seen publicly nearly two decades ago. The headpiece marked a significant style statement for the senior working royal.

A Crown Steeped in Royal History and Superstition

The tiara is a masterpiece from royal jeweler Garrard & Co. It was originally commissioned by Prince Albert in 1853. The piece contains an estimated 2,600 diamonds set in shimmering gold.

Its history involves a curious gemstone swap. According to Garrard’s records, the tiara first held opals. Queen Alexandra replaced them with rubies in 1901 due to old superstitions about opals. She reportedly wore it only once on a state visit.

The piece passed through generations of queens. It went from Alexandra to Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother. Queen Elizabeth II was the last to wear it publicly during a 2005 tour of Malta.

Kate’s Regal Fashion and Broader Tiara Revival

For the dinner honoring Germany’s president, Kate’s entire look spoke of tradition. She paired the tiara with a blue Jenny Packham gown. Her earrings once belonged to the Queen Mother.

This appearance continues her return to grand tiara events after a pause. She wore the Lover’s Knot tiara for a French state visit in July. She chose it again for hosting former President Donald Trump in September.

To date, Kate has publicly worn five different tiaras. Her collection includes her wedding Cartier Halo and the delicate Lotus Flower. Each choice carefully connects to her role and royal heritage.

The Princess of Wales’s choice of the monumental Oriental Circlet Tiara reaffirms her central place in the modern monarchy’s ceremonial life. Her December 3 appearance was a masterclass in balancing historical weight with contemporary duty.

Thought you’d like to know-

Which tiara did Kate Middleton wear?

She wore Queen Victoria’s Oriental Circlet Tiara. This Garrard & Co. piece features around 2,600 diamonds. It had not been seen at a public event for about 20 years.

What is the history of the Oriental Circlet Tiara?

Prince Albert commissioned it for Queen Victoria in 1853. Its original opals were replaced with rubies in 1901 by Queen Alexandra due to superstitions. It has been worn by multiple queens consort.

How many tiaras has Kate worn officially?

The Princess of Wales has worn five tiaras for royal engagements. These include her wedding Cartier Halo, the Lotus Flower, the Strathmore Rose, Queen Mary’s Lover’s Knot, and now Queen Victoria’s Oriental Circlet.

Why was this tiara appearance significant?

It signaled a full return to pre-pandemic levels of grand state diplomacy. Choosing such a historically weighty piece underlined the importance of the Anglo-German relationship being celebrated.

Who else attended the state dinner?

King Charles III and Queen Camilla hosted the event for German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier. The Prince of Wales accompanied Kate Middleton as part of the senior working royals in attendance.