KATE MIDDLETON, the Duchess of Cambridge, has access to some of the most breathtaking jewellery in the world, and there is one royal in particular who inspires her jewellery collection.
Kate Middleton, 35, is often seen out in sparkling jewels as she attends palace receptions and state dinners.
As a member of the Royal Family, she has the right to wear some of the most impressive jewellery in the world.
But according to one expert jeweller, the Duchess of Cambridge has a very specific taste, and it is one which seems to be inspired by another member of the royal family.
Grant Mobley, a gemologist and Director at Pluczenik, has studied the jewellery Kate chooses to wear, and believes she is heavily inspired by the late Princess Diana. The Duchess of Cambridge's wardrobe has also been seen to be influenced by clothes worn by Diana.
He explained: “Kate Middleton’s jewellery vault includes pieces that were once owned by Princess Diana as well as pieces that have been inspired by the late Princess.
“It goes without saying that the most iconic piece shared by both princesses is House of Garrard designed engagement ring, featuring an oval 12-carat Ceylon sapphire surrounded by 14 solitaire diamonds set in white gold.
“This statement piece cost £28,500 in 1981 and now has an estimated value of £300,000, but really due to its history and its ownership it is priceless.
“Another staple piece worn by both Princesses is “The Lover's Knot Tiara”, which was made in 1914 again by the court jewellers Garrard.
“Unlike other Princesses, Kate doesn’t appear to be a big fan of tiaras as she doesn’t wear them very often at all, but this is one in particular she has been pictured wearing numerous times.
“It may be one of her favourites because it’s made from a combination of diamonds and pearls, and as we know from her jewellery choices Kate is a big fan of both.
“The Duchess of Cambridge’s liking for pieces made from a combination of both pearls and diamonds was highlighted once again when she wore Collingwood pearl-drop and diamond earrings and the 3-strand pearl and diamond bracelet from Princess Diana's former collection.”
As well as actual pieces worn by Princess Diana, Grant explained “there are also other pieces that Kate has been seen wearing that are very “Dianaesque” and are most certainly inspired by her.”
He continued: “For example, the diamond and tanzanite necklace The Duchess of Cambridge wore for the first time at a service at St. Paul’s Cathedral in 2015. If you aren’t an expert you may think this set is made from blue sapphires, which was Princess Diana’s signature gemstone.
“She wore several iconic blue sapphire pieces that may have inspired Kate to get a set of some pieces of her own, from the Queen Mother’s sapphire brooch necklace, to a diamond necklace with a sapphire and diamond pendent, to the Saudi Suite which was gifted to her on her wedding day by Prince Fahd of Saudi Arabia.
“Another valuable piece that I believe is inspired by royalty is Kate’s diamond and ruby necklace worn to The Sun Military Awards. The necklace is made up of dropdown diamond chains suspended from the diamond collar, which is very similar style to the necklace that was gifted to the Queen by King Khalid of Saudi Arabia.
“All of the pieces mentioned are incredibly valuable and precious mainly due to their diamond, and some additional precious gem compositions. In my opinion and based on my experience and expertise, it’s quite fitting that members of one of the oldest still-existing monarchies in the world choose to wear diamond jewellery because of their inherent and enduring value, as well as the rich history and personal connection that comes with heirloom pieces.
“One of the amazing parts of owning fine jewellery is its ability to stand the test of time and be passed down while not on retaining, but gaining in value.
“In the diamond industry, we’re seeing news about manmade diamonds which take two weeks to manufacture, and while their look and composition are similar to real diamonds, their lack of rarity and uniqueness gives them no value. We have yet to see The Duchess of Cambridge wear a factory-grown diamond, but it’s quite unimaginable that a royal would opt for something ersatz and worthless over a real diamond that is rich in history and inherent value.”