Her outfit paid tribute to her royal status, with a new custom-designed velvet dress by McQueen. The luxurious velvet enhanced her natural beauty, making this one of her most regal looks. To compliment the dress, Catherine wore her signature tiara, the Queen Mary Lovers’ Na Tiara, a treasured piece in her jewellery collection. She paired the tiara with stunning chandelier diamond earrings and a matching chandelier ring for added sparkle.
The standout piece of her outfit was the extraordinary Nizam of Hyderabad necklace, borrowed from the Royal Vault. This remarkable necklace is no ordinary piece, it is one of the most iconic and valuable pieces in the British royal collection. Originally worn by Catherine in 2014, the necklace has a rich history and sentimental value. It was a wedding gift to the Queen from the Nizam of Hyderabad. The necklace itself is a luxury masterpiece, featuring 38 diamonds, including 13 emerald-cut stones and a pear-shaped drop in the centre.
Its intricate design and brilliance make it an iconic piece, worth an incredible amount of money. In comparison, it would take the average British citizen over 2,000 years of hard work to afford such an exquisite necklace. This Cartier creation holds special sentimental value for the Queen, symbolising her early marriage to Prince Philip. This necklace is usually reserved for formal occasions, making Catherine’s decision to wear it at such a prestigious event memorable.
Although part of the Queen’s own private collection, appearances by the Queen or Princess Catherine always attract public attention, demonstrating timeless elegance. For Catherine, wearing this historic necklace reflects her exalted role in the royal family. Each time she wears the Nizam of Hyderabad necklace, she adds a touch of royal flair to her style. This sparkling piece of jewellery not only represents luxury, but also the long-standing legacy of the British royal family, a living piece of history that continues to captivate audiences around the world.
Catherine’s appearance at the diplomatic reception, wearing a custom McQueen gown and the iconic necklace, exudes pure charm and grace. It demonstrates her status as a modern royal who respects tradition while still infusing her own timeless elegance into every event.
