Princess Catherine, known for her poised elegance and sophisticated sense of style, made a stunning statement at the Earthshot Prize Awards earlier this week. As she graced the green carpet, the world’s eyes were drawn not just to her beauty but to a historical and emotional choice that left royal circles abuzz. The Duchess of Cambridge wore a remarkable emerald and diamond choker once owned by Princess Diana, a necklace that symbolized both the enduring legacy of Diana and the timeless strength of the royal family. It was a tribute, an homage, and perhaps most importantly, a statement of unity that resonated deeply with those who remember Diana’s legacy.
The necklace, which Diana first wore in 1981, was a wedding gift from Queen Elizabeth II. It’s not just a piece of jewelry—it’s an iconic symbol. Comprised of rare emeralds and 10-carat diamonds, the piece is valued at a staggering $20 million USD (approximately ₹150 crore INR). The emeralds themselves are breathtaking, glowing a deep, vivid green, which has since become inseparable from Diana’s public image. For many, this choker represents the very essence of Diana—her style, her grace, and, tragically, the untimely end to her story.
But for Princess Catherine to wear it, at such a high-profile event, added layers of meaning. Diana’s legacy has always lingered in the public’s mind, especially in the context of royal traditions and royal fashion. For Catherine, who had never been shy about honoring Diana through subtle nods in her own fashion choices, this was a powerful statement—a choice that merged history with modernity, respect with responsibility.
A Timeless Tribute
Diana’s popularity with the public remains unmatched. Even after her tragic passing, she continues to be seen as a beacon of compassion, grace, and independence—qualities that resonated deeply with the British public, and across the world. For Catherine, who has often been compared to Diana, it’s clear that the late Princess of Wales had an impact on her. But this wasn’t just about wearing a famous piece of jewelry—it was about continuing the legacy of the royal family in a way that honors both the past and the future. Catherine’s careful fashion choices have long been a topic of conversation, with many experts pointing out how she blends contemporary style with the enduring traditions of the monarchy. With the choker, Catherine wasn’t just wearing a piece of jewelry; she was paying homage to a beloved royal figure who, in many ways, paved the way for her.
By donning the emerald necklace, Princess Catherine was subtly affirming her place in a royal family that continues to evolve yet remains steeped in history. It was an emotional connection to Diana’s legacy, yes, but also a statement of continuity, one that reassured the public that the monarchy, despite its many challenges, endures.
The Queen’s Silent Reaction
Of course, Catherine’s choice of the emerald choker did not go unnoticed within the royal family itself. Sources from within the palace suggested that Queen Camilla, who is now the consort of King Charles, was not entirely pleased with the display of one of Diana’s most iconic pieces. While Camilla certainly holds the title of Queen and enjoys access to countless royal jewels, it was this particular necklace—so deeply linked to Diana—that seemed to stir some unease.
The emotional significance of the emerald choker cannot be overstated. For Camilla, whose relationship with Diana was complicated, the sight of Catherine wearing the necklace could have been a bittersweet reminder of the past—a past where Diana’s popularity and influence were undeniable. Many speculated that Camilla’s reaction was less about the necklace itself, but more about the legacy it carried—one that continued to capture the hearts of the British public even years after Diana’s passing.
In royal circles, the past is never truly gone, and the legacy of Diana remains a complicated subject. Yet for Catherine, this choice of jewelry was not a challenge to anyone’s authority. Instead, it was a statement of respect to a woman who had shaped the monarchy in ways both seen and unseen.
Fashion with Meaning: A Tribute to the Past
What makes Princess Catherine’s fashion choices so impactful is her ability to convey so much with a single piece of clothing or accessory. Whether it’s a subtle reference to Princess Diana or a nod to the late Queen Elizabeth II, Catherine often uses her wardrobe to make a statement without uttering a word. This has made her one of the most admired women in the world, not just for her beauty but for her intelligence, grace, and thoughtfulness in every public appearance.
When Catherine wore the emerald choker at the Earthshot Prize Awards, it wasn’t just a fashion choice; it was a moment of quiet reverence. Her gown, an off-the-shoulder piece by Solace London, was both modern and sustainable, aligning perfectly with the event’s focus on environmental responsibility. But it was the jewelry that stole the spotlight. The choker, so closely associated with Diana, spoke volumes about Catherine’s respect for Diana’s legacy. It was a gesture that no words could express—a moment where fashion and legacy met in the most stunning way.
