The Earthshot Prize Awards may have been designed to highlight environmental innovation, but this year, the spotlight fell firmly on Princess Catherine — and the dazzling heirloom she chose to wear in honor of the late Princess Diana.
A Historic Piece Reimagined
As Catherine stepped onto the green carpet alongside Prince William, all eyes turned to the sparkling emerald and diamond choker encircling her neck. Once belonging to Diana, Princess of Wales, the necklace is one of the most iconic pieces in the royal collection. Gifted to Diana by Queen Elizabeth II in 1981, the choker quickly became a signature of the beloved Princess, immortalized in countless photographs from the 1980s and 1990s.
Now inherited by Catherine, the piece has found new life. Paired with a sleek off-the-shoulder gown by Solace London, rented in line with the event’s sustainability theme, the choker glowed once again — a radiant bridge between past and present. Valued at an estimated $20 million, thanks to its exquisite craftsmanship and rare 10-carat diamonds, the necklace is as much a symbol of legacy as it is of luxury.
A Tribute That Stirred Emotion
Royal watchers were quick to note the emotional weight of Catherine’s choice. Wearing one of Diana’s most cherished jewels on such a global stage was more than a fashion statement — it was a tribute to both her late mother-in-law and the late Queen Elizabeth, whose memory Catherine has honored on numerous occasions since her passing.
The symbolism was not lost on Prince William. Observers remarked that the heir to the throne seemed unable to take his eyes off his wife, his expression a mixture of pride, admiration, and perhaps nostalgia for the mother he lost too soon.
Reported Tensions Behind the Scenes
Not everyone within the royal household, however, is said to have welcomed the moment with enthusiasm. Palace insiders suggest that Queen Camilla was privately unsettled by the attention the necklace commanded — a reminder of Diana’s enduring popularity and the deep public affection she continues to command decades after her passing.
While Catherine’s choice highlighted her role as the respectful custodian of royal legacy, it also rekindled old emotions and rivalries that continue to echo through the monarchy’s inner circles.
Catherine as Guardian of Tradition
Since marrying into the royal family, Catherine has carefully navigated the delicate balance between honoring tradition and embracing modernity. Her fashion choices consistently demonstrate a keen awareness of history while asserting her own graceful, contemporary style.
By wearing Diana’s emerald choker, Catherine reinforced her reputation as both a global style icon and a thoughtful guardian of royal heritage. Her appearance was not just about glamour; it was a statement of continuity, respect, and the enduring power of symbolism in the monarchy.
A Moment for the Ages
As applause rippled across the green carpet and cameras flashed, one thought seemed to echo through the crowd: “The late Princess would have loved her.” In that moment, Catherine embodied not only elegance but also the living legacy of Diana — ensuring that the memory of one of the most beloved figures in royal history continues to shine brightly into the future.
