King Charles and Queen Camilla’s recent state visit to Italy was a momentous occasion, marking not just their first major engagement of the year but also their 20th wedding anniversary.
During this visit, Camilla’s jewellery selection caught the eye, as she showcased several pieces with deep personal meaning.
These pieces, valued at over £9 million, combined historical significance with personal milestones.
Fine jewellery experts at Steven Stone took a closer look at some of her most iconic pieces, offering insights into her choice of accessories for the special occasion.
The Lily of the Valley Brooch: A Symbol of Love and Memory
Camilla’s jewellery choices often hold emotional weight, and one of the most significant pieces she wore during her visit was the Lily of the Valley brooch.
This delicate piece, adorned with diamonds and pearls, mimicked the flower Camilla had included in her wedding bouquet.
The symbolism behind the Lily of the Valley is fitting for the couple’s 20th anniversary, as the flower traditionally represents humility, purity, and enduring love.
Camilla’s decision to wear it during her anniversary portrait with King Charles was a quiet yet powerful tribute to their enduring love and the memories of their wedding day.
Though the brooch was originally owned by the Queen Mother, Camilla has worn it on multiple special occasions, including her daughter’s wedding in 2006.
While not the most valuable piece in her collection, its emotional connection to her personal history makes it one of the most meaningful.
The Prince Albert Brooch: A Family Treasure Worth Millions
During a visit to the Quirinale Palace, Camilla wore the iconic Prince Albert brooch, which is both historically significant and highly valuable.
Commissioned by Prince Albert in 1840 as a wedding gift for Queen Victoria, this brooch has been a cherished piece passed down through generations.
The brooch features a striking 40-carat sapphire surrounded by 12 large diamonds, with a vivid blue hue that suggests its origins in Burma, renowned for producing exceptional gemstones.
The piece has remained an integral part of the royal wardrobe, worn by both Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth II on numerous occasions.
Its immense value—estimated at £8 million—speaks to its rarity and historical importance.
Celtic Knot Brooch: A Nod to Royal Legacy
At a reception for the British-Italian community in Rome, Camilla selected the emerald and diamond Celtic Knot brooch, originally gifted to Queen Mary in 1893.
The brooch’s design, featuring a central emerald encircled by diamond-lined loops, symbolises eternal love and unity.
This timeless piece was a fitting choice for the royal couple’s anniversary celebrations, reinforcing Camilla’s deep connection to her royal lineage and the traditions of the monarchy.
Camilla’s Signature Pearl Choker: A Touch of Elegance
For the anniversary celebrations, Camilla wore her signature four-strand pearl choker, a piece that’s become synonymous with her refined style.
The necklace, which features cultured pearls and a round clasp adorned with Edwardian-cut diamonds, perfectly complemented her anniversary attire.
The choker, valued at £50,000, is a beautiful example of Camilla’s preference for classic, understated jewellery with historical charm.
Turquoise and Diamond Necklace: A Family Heirloom
Camilla’s jewellery collection also includes a vivid turquoise and diamond necklace, a piece that is believed to have been passed down from her mother.
At a state banquet in Rome, Camilla wore this family heirloom, which features cabochons of turquoise surrounded by diamonds.
The necklace has made several appearances in the royal spotlight, including at Charles’ 50th birthday celebration.
Its estimated value of £150,000 highlights its importance as part of the royal family’s heritage.
Cluster Earrings: Elegant and Sentimental
In keeping with her love for sentimental jewellery, Camilla paired her turquoise necklace with a stunning set of diamond cluster earrings.
These earrings, featuring pear-cut diamonds arranged in a cascading design, are part of a demi-parure that holds emotional significance for Camilla.
The earrings have become a beloved piece in her collection, symbolising the early days of her marriage to King Charles.
Greville Ivy Leaf Clips: A Legacy of Royal Tradition
Camilla also wore the Greville Ivy Leaf clips during her meeting with Pope Francis at the Vatican.
These brilliant-cut diamond clips, set in pavé platinum leaves, were commissioned by Dame Margaret Greville and passed down to Queen Elizabeth (the Queen Mother) in 1942.
The clips have since become an iconic piece in the royal jewellery collection, worn by Queen Elizabeth II on numerous occasions, including during her Platinum Jubilee celebrations.
The clips, valued at £64,000, are a symbol of royal continuity and tradition.
Square Brooch: A Modern Addition to Camilla’s Collection
On the final day of the state visit, Camilla wore a new yellow gold square brooch to a reception in Ravenna, marking the 80th anniversary of the city’s liberation.
The brooch, encrusted with sparkling diamonds, was designed by Italian designer Lucia Odeschalchi and sparked speculation that it might have been a gift for the couple’s anniversary.
With an estimated value of £20,000, this modern addition to Camilla’s jewellery collection complements her evolving style while maintaining the timeless elegance she’s known for.
A Royal Jewellery Collection Rich in History and Personal Meaning
Camilla’s jewellery choices are more than just symbols of luxury—they are expressions of personal history, royal legacy, and emotional significance.
From heirloom pieces passed down through generations to new acquisitions that reflect her evolving role, her collection is a testament to her deep connection to both the monarchy and her personal milestones.
Each piece tells a story, blending the past and present with a sense of timeless elegance.