In a moment designed to remember the fallen, Catherine also showed how remembrance can be personal, intimate and grounded in family love.

The princess, 43, stepped out at the National Memorial Arboretum in a refined all-black ensemble, pairing her military-inspired coat with the striking ruby and diamond earrings that caught the light with every movement.

Until now, the exact earrings worn by the Princess had never been formally identified, though Vogue recently suggested they are a newly commissioned design by G. Collins & Sons.

The jeweller has an extraordinary royal pedigree: Harry Collins served as the late Queen Elizabeth II’s personal jeweller from 2000 to 2022 and held the prestigious title of Crown Jeweller between 2007 and 2012, overseeing the care of the Crown Jewels.

The firm was even entrusted with recreating Henry VIII’s crown, now displayed at Hampton Court Palace – a testament to their craftsmanship and longstanding royal ties.

The relatively new piece has only ever made two previous appearances – first during the 80th anniversary of VE Day in May, and again when she welcomed President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump on their State Visit to the UK in September.

Jewellery expert Maxwell Stone of Steven Stone jewellers noted the significance and craftsmanship behind the design. “The classic drop design features a vivid ruby at the centre, encircled by a delicate halo of diamonds, with a single diamond at the top adding to their timeless elegance.

“This refined style is often chosen for formal or commemorative occasions, making the earrings a fitting choice for the Princess as she marked Remembrance on Armistice Day,” he added.

Stone also highlighted their value compared with similar royal designs. “Kate’s earrings are strikingly similar in design to a pair owned by Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, which feature three times as many rubies and are worth £228,000 [$300K]. Based on this comparison, I’d estimate Kate’s to be worth around £76,000 [$100K].”