One notable tribute came from Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, who donned a pair of Pearl and Diamond drop earrings, a gift from the Monarch herself. A spokesperson for The Duchess confirmed this detail to Insider, underlining that the earrings were a token from Queen Elizabeth and commemorated the duo's joint outing in Cheshire, UK, back in 2018. These earrings, drawn from Her Majesty's Personal Collection, held significant sentimental value.
Meghan proudly wore the earrings once again during her first joint engagement with the Queen in June 2018, a visit to Cheshire that included the opening of a bridge and a theater. In a March 2022 interview with Oprah Winfrey, Meghan fondly recalled the gift, describing the beautiful pearl earrings and a matching necklace she received from the Queen, emphasizing the Queen's warmth and inviting nature.
However, recent claims from jewelry experts have raised questions about the authenticity of the earrings Meghan wore at the Queen's funeral. These experts, featured in the latest issue of Vogue, assert that the earrings did not feature genuine pearls as initially believed. They present an analysis showcasing similarities between the earrings worn by Meghan and those sold as replicas on a gift site, purportedly modeled after Queen Mary's button earrings.
The suggestion that Meghan's earrings were replicas has ignited discussions about the intricate world of royal jewelry and the significance of each piece. Experts underscore the intricate nature of the royal collection, emphasizing the distinction between personal jewelry and pieces belonging to the crown. It is highlighted that Queen Mary's jewelry, as part of the crown jewels, cannot be privately gifted or transferred. In this light, it is questioned whether the earrings in question truly originated from Queen Mary's collection.
Amidst this controversy, Meghan Markle's access to historic Royal Family Jewelry has reportedly been restricted. Reports suggest that she is prohibited from wearing certain pieces, including diamond necklaces, brooches, and tiaras. The decision is said to have received approval from the Queen and Prince William.
In contrast, Catherine, Princess of Wales, made her own tribute during the funeral, adorning a pair of earrings crafted from Bahraini pearls. These earrings, a part of the royal collection, were also worn by Catherine during Prince Philip's funeral the previous year.
As we approach the one-year milestone since Queen Elizabeth II's passing, reflections on her legacy and the complexities of royal jewelry continue to captivate the public's attention, offering insights into the intricate world of royal traditions and protocols.
