Meghan Markle became upset as Kate Middleton inherited the late Queen Elizabeth II's prized jewelry collection, which is estimated to be worth $80 million. This inheritance was perceived as a second coronation gift for the true princess. During her visit to Saint Giles Cathedral in Edinburgh, Kate donned a stunning Catherine Walker coat dress.
This particular coat dress, made of wool crepe, was previously worn by the princess on two separate occasions. She first showcased it during the Commonwealth Day service in 2022 and later wore it again for the Easter Sunday service at Westminster Abbey. The custom-made coat dress, inspired by Mayfair style, featured a sapphire hue and was modified with a velvet shawl collar.
To complement her outfit, Kate accessorized with a necklace worth £23,000 that once belonged to Queen Elizabeth II. The late queen's four-row pearl choker had been previously worn by Prince William at both Prince Philip's and Queen Elizabeth's funerals. For footwear, Kate opted for a pair of elegant £445 shoes from Emmy London.
As Queen of England, Queen Elizabeth II possessed an extensive collection of jewelry and art, some of which has been passed down to her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Following her passing, it was revealed that Princess Kate had been chosen to inherit Queen Elizabeth's personal jewelry collection, consisting of over 300 pieces estimated to be worth around £110 million or $90.67 million.
This collection includes pieces that belonged to the late queen personally, rather than being part of the crown jewels. Among the notable pieces is the Nizam of Hyderabad necklace, which only Queen Elizabeth and Princess Kate have worn. Crafted by Cartier in the 1930s, the necklace features a dazzling centerpiece with a detachable double drop pendant adorned with 13 emerald-cut diamonds and a pear-shaped drop.
The original version had three triple drop and eight double drop pendants, but Cartier bought it back a year later and modified it to its current design.
The Nizam of Hyderabad necklace is not the only piece of jewelry that the late queen lent to her granddaughter-in-law. One remarkable item from the crown jewels collection is the George IV State Diadem, also known as The Diamond Diadem.
This rare piece, containing 2,358 gemstones, was given to Queen Elizabeth as a wedding gift from the Nizam of Hyderabad to commemorate her marriage to Prince Philip. The necklace, estimated to be worth around £66.3 million or $80.44 million, holds historical significance.
Princess Kate had the honor of wearing this exquisite necklace during an exhibition at the National Portrait Gallery in 2014.
In the future, when Prince William ascends to the throne, his wife, Kate Middleton, will inherit the title of Queen Consort from Camilla. At that time, the Princess of Wales will share the privilege of wearing these precious jewels.
