Duchess Sophie Sparkles in Tiara Once Worn by Kate

A historic diamond tiara reappeared at Buckingham Palace on Tuesday night, adorning a different royal head. The Lotus Flower Tiara, last worn by Princess Kate in 2022, was seen sparkling atop the head of Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, during the state banquet for the Emperor and Empress of Japan.

Princess Kate, who has been battling cancer and undergoing treatment, has taken a public step back this year. While she recently attended the Trooping the Colour, she wasn’t present at the state banquet. This created an opportunity for Sophie, the wife of King Charles’s brother, to step into the spotlight. As the most senior royal woman present after Queen Camilla, Sophie’s role has become more prominent, especially with both the King and Kate receiving cancer treatment.

Princess Kate and Sophie Edinburgh Tiara

Sophie’s dazzling display included the historic Lotus Flower Tiara, a piece crafted entirely of diamonds set in gold and silver. Made in 1923 from a necklace gifted to Queen Elizabeth (the Queen Mother), the tiara has a fascinating past. The original necklace was dismantled and redesigned in an art deco floral motif, reflecting the Egyptian influence of the time.

The tiara graced the head of Queen Elizabeth (the Queen Mother) early in the 20th century, worn both traditionally and as a forehead bandeau. It was then passed on to Princess Margaret, who wore it frequently until her passing. Margaret even lent the tiara to her daughter-in-law for her wedding day.

Following Margaret and the Queen Mother’s deaths, the tiara became part of Queen Elizabeth II’s collection. Unseen publicly for years, it reappeared in 2015 at Kate’s first tiara event after her marriage. The Princess donned it again in 2022 for a diplomatic reception held by King Charles III. With the Queen’s passing, the ownership of the tiara likely transferred to Charles, who would have loaned it to Kate on those occasions.

Lotus Flower Tiara

For the state banquet, Sophie paired the tiara with a magnificent set of diamond jewels, including a necklace and earrings, that also belonged to the late Queen Elizabeth II. Her ensemble paid subtle homage to the legacy of the royal jewels while showcasing a significant piece with a rich history.