Princess Diana was one of the most beloved and iconic members of the British royal family. Born in 1961, she became the Princess of Wales when she married Prince Charles in 1981, and quickly captured the world's attention with her grace, kindness, and humanitarian work. Diana's charity work focused on a wide range of issues, including homelessness, HIV/AIDS, and landmines. She used her platform to raise awareness and funds for these causes, often visiting hospitals and shelters to connect with those in need. Her commitment to helping others earned her the nickname "The People's Princess."Princess Diana was known for her exquisite taste in jewelry, and many of her pieces have become iconic. Here are the top 5 jewelry pieces of Princess Diana and how she acquired them:
1. The Sapphire Engagement Ring: Princess Diana's engagement ring is one of the most famous pieces of jewelry in the world. It features a 12-carat oval blue sapphire surrounded by 14 solitaire diamonds set in 18-karat white gold. The ring was originally purchased by Prince Charles from the British jewelry firm Garrard in 1981.
2. The Spencer Tiara: The Spencer Tiara is a family heirloom that was worn by Princess Diana on her wedding day. It features diamond scrolls and floral motifs set in silver and gold. The tiara has been in the Spencer family for generations and was given to Diana by her father, Earl Spencer.
3. The Queen Mary's Lover's Knot Tiara: The Lover's Knot Tiara was a favorite of Princess Diana's and is one of the most recognizable pieces in her collection. It features 19 diamond arches with suspended pearls and was made by the House of Garrard in 1913. The tiara originally belonged to Queen Mary and was passed down to Queen Elizabeth II, who later gave it to Princess Diana as a wedding present.
4. The Emerald Choker: The Emerald Choker was a wedding present from the Queen Mother to Princess Diana. It features a large emerald surrounded by diamonds set in yellow gold. Diana was often seen wearing the choker with a matching pair of earrings and bracelet.
5. The South Sea Pearl Choker: The South Sea Pearl Choker is a modern piece that was designed specifically for Princess Diana. It features three rows of South Sea pearls with a diamond clasp and was made by Collingwood Jewelers in 1989. Diana wore the choker on several occasions, including to a charity ball in Sydney, Australia.
Overall, Princess Diana's jewelry collection was extensive and included many other notable pieces, such as the Cambridge Lover's Knot Tiara and the Queen Mother's sapphire and diamond earrings.
Despite her popularity, Diana's personal life was often fraught with difficulty. She struggled with the intense scrutiny of the media and the pressures of royal life, and her marriage to Prince Charles was famously troubled. Prince Charles and Prince Diana separated in 1992 and divorced in 1996, a year before Diana's tragic death in a car accident in Paris.
Diana's death sent shock waves around the world, and her legacy as a compassionate and caring humanitarian continues to inspire people today. She was a trailblazer in the royal family, using her influence for good and breaking down barriers for future generations. Diana will always be remembered as a symbol of hope, kindness, and compassion, and her impact on the world will never be forgotten.
Picture Credits- Forbes, Tatler, Pinterest, Sothebys