The Princess of Wales is set to one day wear the rare and priceless Diamond Diadem, a crown valued at £800,000, which was a favorite of the late Queen Elizabeth II. Queen Elizabeth’s jewelry collection is renowned worldwide, boasting everything from glittering tiaras and diamond-encrusted diadems to luxurious strings of pearls. Among these precious items is one of the most unique pieces in the Crown Jewels collection: the George IV State Diadem, also known as The Diamond Diadem.

The George IV State Diadem was commissioned by King George IV in 1820 and created by the renowned jeweler Rundell & Bridge. Originally designed for George IV’s coronation, it was later reset with jewels from the Royal Collection for Queen Victoria. Today, the crown is valued at around £800,000 and remains one of the rarest and most valuable pieces in the Crown Jewels.

The £800,000 Diamond Diadem, a treasured item of Queen Elizabeth II, is destined to be worn one day by Catherine, the new Princess of Wales. When Prince William ascends to the throne, his wife Catherine will inherit the title of Queen Consort from Camilla. At that time, Catherine will also gain the privilege of wearing this historic diamond diadem.

The Diamond Diadem has been a key symbol in the Royal Collection and was worn frequently by Queen Elizabeth II throughout her reign. Notably, she wore it during her first State Opening of Parliament in 1952 and during her journey to her coronation in 1953. The diadem was also featured in many official portraits, including those used on British and Commonwealth coinage, banknotes, and postage stamps.

However, the iconic crown is unlikely to make a public appearance in the near future. According to the Royal Collection Trust, only four queens have worn the diadem since its creation: Queen Victoria, Queen Alexandra, Queen Mary, and Queen Elizabeth II. Following George IV’s death in 1830, the diadem has been worn by every Queen and Queen Consort, beginning with Queen Adelaide, the wife of William IV. Therefore, it is expected that Queen Consort Camilla, the wife of King Charles III, will likely wear the crown at the upcoming coronation in May.

The diadem features a delicate design of silver and gold, with a narrow band edged in pearls and topped with four crosses pattée and four sprays, representing the national emblems of England, Ireland, and Scotland: roses, shamrocks, and thistles. Set with 1,333 diamonds, including a four-carat pale yellow brilliant in the center of the front cross, the crown is typically worn over a velvet cap, though Queen Elizabeth II often preferred to wear it without one.

As the royal family continues to evolve, this stunning piece of history will undoubtedly remain a symbol of the legacy and grandeur of the British monarchy.