Queen Camilla showcased a rarely-seen tiara, previously owned by the late Queen Elizabeth II, during a dazzling diplomatic reception at Buckingham Palace on Tuesday evening.
Hosting the prestigious event alongside King Charles, Camilla opted for an elegant blue velvet evening gown by Fiona Clare, complemented by the small aquamarine and diamond tiara. This delicate piece, often referred to as the aquamarine ribbon tiara, features five striking aquamarines set amid intricate diamond ribbons.
The tiara first appeared publicly in 1970 when Queen Elizabeth II wore it during a visit to Canada. It then remained out of sight for decades, leading many to believe it had been disassembled for other pieces.
However, it resurfaced in 2012 when Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh (then Countess of Wessex), wore it to a gala dinner celebrating the wedding of Hereditary Grand Duke Guillaume of Luxembourg.
The following year, Sophie wore the tiara again at the wedding of Princess Madeleine of Sweden. Queen Camilla’s appearance marks her first time wearing the piece.
In addition to the tiara, Camilla wore the King’s Royal Family Order, which she debuted during the Japanese State Visit in June. King Charles, dressed in white tie with traditional knee breeches and buckled shoes, joined his wife for the grand occasion.
The Prince of Wales also attended, wearing a sharp black tuxedo paired with the Garter Star, the Thistle Star, the Order of Bath, and his miniature Jubilee and Coronation medals. His wife, the Princess of Wales, was notably absent, as she is believed to be focusing on the upcoming annual Christmas carol concert at Westminster Abbey.
The Diplomatic Corps reception is an annual highlight, celebrating London’s status as host to one of the world’s largest diplomatic communities.
Hundreds of representatives from countries accredited to the Court of St. James’s attended the event, dressed in their finest attire, to mark the UK’s diplomatic year.
