The dazzling piece carries a poignant link to Germany, making it an especially fitting choice for the occasion. It was designed back in 1853 by Prince Albert, the German-born consort of Queen Victoria.

Queen Victoria’s Oriental Circlet Tiara remains one of the oldest and most significant diadems in the Royal Collection. Crafted by Garrard and set with more than 2,600 diamonds, it is officially priceless, though experts estimate its value to be in the region of £6.5 million.

The tiara has an extraordinary history. After the Queen Mother passed away in 2002, Queen Elizabeth II inherited the piece, but wore it only once during her reign on a trip to Malta in 2005, making Catherine’s choice to revive it particularly powerful.

Her decision was also unexpected as she typically reaches for her beloved Lover’s Knot Tiara – the iconic diamond-and-pearl piece commissioned by Queen Mary in 1913 and closely associated with Diana, Princess of Wales. Catherine has worn the Lover’s Knot 13 times between 2015 and 2025, including at the US State Banquet back in September.

Over the past decade, it has become her signature look at glamorous events.

By choosing the Oriental Circlet, Catherine sent a clear and cleverly subtle message – a nod to the German heritage embedded in the tiara’s design, timed perfectly to honour King Charles’s guests.

Catherine finished her ensemble with Queen Elizabeth II’s earrings, adding emotional resonance to the otherwise diplomatic styling, and proudly displayed King Charles’s Family Order on her dress.