While her tiaras and earrings get a lot of attention, her brooch collection is an important but lesser-known part of her wardrobe. Many of these brooches were passed down to Queen Elizabeth II, some are part of the royal family’s heritage and others are new additions to Catherine’s collection. These pieces are not only symbols of her status but also represent the long-standing traditions of the British monarchy.

In November 2022, Catherine unveiled an important brooch during a state visit to South African President Cyril Ramaphosa. The brooch, which is decorated with diamonds and an emerald drop, symbolises her new role as Princess of Wales – a title she assumed in September 2022 after King Charles III ascended the throne. The feather design dates back to 1863, when it was given to Princess Alexandra of Denmark when she married Prince Albert Edward, who later became King Edward VII.

The brooch has traditionally been worn by the current Prince of Wales and his wife. It has been passed down from Diana, Princess of Wales, to Camilla, now Queen, and then to Catherine. Although Alexandra is not known to have worn the brooch, it is believed to have entered the Royal Treasury after her death, becoming a prized possession among royals. Diana was notably the first person to be photographed wearing the feather brooch, using it as a pendant on a diamond necklace.

Catherine also had access to Queen Elizabeth II's extensive brooch collection, including a sapphire brooch known as the Prince Albert brooch. Given to Queen Victoria by Prince Albert before their wedding in 1840, the brooch features a large sapphire surrounded by twelve diamonds. The brooch was so precious to Queen Victoria that she wanted it passed down to future queens and their spouses.

Catherine often wears the brooch at important events. In March 2023, she attended the Commonwealth Day ceremony with Queen Camilla and Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, wearing a striking Erdem coat and matching midi dress, along with a diamond and sapphire brooch that once belonged to Diana. Catherine's jewelry choices, especially her brooches, will help cement her legacy as one of the most admired members of modern royalty.