When it comes to the royal family, one can’t help but wonder about the glimmer of luxury that adorns their regal attire. From Queen Elizabeth II to the Duchess of Cambridge, their choice of jewelry has always fascinated the world. But have you ever wondered which jewelry brand has the honor of gracing the necks, wrists, and fingers of the royal family? Delving into the world of royal wear, this article uncovers the coveted jewelry brand that has become a mainstay in the regal ensembles, adding a touch of elegance and charm to their already mesmerizing presence.
Cartier
History of the Brand
Cartier, established in 1847 in Paris, has a history deeply intertwined with the world of royalty. The brand quickly gained a reputation for its exquisite craftsmanship and refined designs, capturing the attention of royals around the globe. Its founder, Louis-François Cartier, started out as a small jewelry shop owner and gradually expanded the business to become one of the most iconic luxury brands in the world.
Items owned by the Royals
Over the years, Cartier has adorned the royal family with some of their most precious and treasured pieces. One notable piece in the royal collection is the Cartier Halo Tiara, which was famously worn by Kate Middleton on her wedding day to Prince William. The tiara, made in 1936, features intricate scrollwork and is adorned with over 739 brilliant-cut diamonds.
Significance in the Royal Family
Cartier’s association with the royal family extends beyond just individual jewelry pieces. The brand has been bestowed with several royal warrants, which are prestigious recognitions of their service to the royal family. These warrants of appointment indicate that Cartier has been selected to supply goods or services to the royal households, solidifying its significance and close relationship with the royals.
Garrard & Co
Brand’s Connection to the Royal Family
Garrard & Co, founded in London in 1735, has a rich heritage with the British royal family. The brand became official Crown Jeweller in 1843, tasked with the responsibility of creating and maintaining the British crown jewels. This longstanding connection to the royal family has solidified Garrard & Co as a leading name in luxury jewelry.
Most Iconic Pieces by Garrard & Co
Garrard & Co has created several iconic pieces that have captured the attention of both the royal family and the world. One such piece is the Imperial State Crown, which is worn by the British monarch during the State Opening of Parliament. This intricate crown showcases the expert craftsmanship and attention to detail that Garrard & Co is known for.
Recent royal engagements featuring Garrard & Co
In recent years, members of the royal family have continued to choose Garrard & Co for their important engagements. Princess Diana famously selected a sapphire and diamond ring from Garrard & Co as her engagement ring, a piece now worn by the Duchess of Cambridge. This choice further solidified the brand’s presence in the lives of the royals and their significant moments.
Asprey
Overview of the Brand
Asprey, founded in 1781 in London, has long been associated with luxury and elegance. The brand’s heritage is rooted in exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail. Asprey quickly established itself as a favorite among the royals, offering a wide range of exquisite jewelry, silverware, and other luxury goods.
Popular Asprey pieces among the Royals
Asprey has created several pieces that have become beloved amongst the royal family. The brand’s Woodland collection, inspired by the British countryside, showcases intricate designs featuring animals and nature motifs. The Duchess of Cambridge, Kate Middleton, has been seen wearing the Asprey Woodland Oak Leaf Earrings, which beautifully capture the essence of natural beauty.
The reason behind choosing Asprey
The royal family’s choice of Asprey stems from the brand’s commitment to elegance and craftsmanship. Asprey’s reputation for creating timeless and exquisite pieces aligns perfectly with the royal family’s desire for jewelry that reflects their status and legacy. Moreover, Asprey’s rich history and association with the British royal family have further solidified its place as a go-to brand for the royals.
Tiffany & Co
Presence of Tiffany & Co in the Royal Collection
Tiffany & Co, founded in 1837 in New York City, has a longstanding relationship with the British royal family. The brand’s iconic blue boxes and exquisite designs have made Tiffany & Co a globally recognized name in luxury jewelry. Several pieces from Tiffany & Co can be found in the royal collection, each reflecting the brand’s timeless elegance.
Specific pieces owned by the Royals
One of the most iconic Tiffany & Co pieces in the royal collection is the Queen Mary Diamond Bandeau. This stunning tiara, which can also be worn as a necklace, features a series of diamonds set in a delicate design. It was originally crafted by Garrard & Co in the 1930s and acquired by Queen Mary. Another notable piece is the Tiffany & Co Blue Sapphire Necklace, a gift from the King of Saudi Arabia to Queen Elizabeth II.
Brand’s Relevance and Significance to the Royal Family
Tiffany & Co’s association with the British royal family dates back to the early 20th century, when the brand caught the attention of Queen Mary. Since then, several members of the royal family, including Queen Elizabeth II and Princess Diana, have been regularly spotted wearing Tiffany & Co jewelry. The brand’s timeless designs and commitment to exceptional quality have made it a favorite among the royals for generations.
G. Collins and Sons
Introduction to the Brand
G. Collins and Sons, established in 1819 in London, has become synonymous with luxury and elegance. The brand’s heritage is rooted in creating bespoke pieces that showcase exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail. G. Collins and Sons has had a long-standing relationship with the British royal family, which has contributed to its esteemed reputation.
Role of G. Collins and Sons in the Royal Family
G. Collins and Sons has played a significant role in the life of the royal family, crafting exquisite pieces that have become treasured heirlooms. One notable piece created by G. Collins and Sons is the Queen Alexandra’s Kokoshnik Tiara. This tiara, featuring rows of diamonds set in a stunning kokoshnik style, was a wedding gift to Queen Alexandra from her new husband, King Edward VII.
Most Treasured Pieces by G. Collins and Sons
Among the most treasured pieces created by G. Collins and Sons is the Cambridge Lover’s Knot Tiara, which is now famously worn by the Duchess of Cambridge, Kate Middleton. Crafted in 1914, this tiara features a series of diamond-encrusted arches and dangling pearls, creating a regal and timeless design. The tiara was originally commissioned by Queen Mary and has since become synonymous with the British royal family.
Van Cleef & Arpels
History of the Brand
Van Cleef & Arpels, established in 1896 in Paris, has a history of creating exquisite jewelry for the world’s elites, including the royal family. The brand’s exceptional craftsmanship and innovative designs have made it a favorite among those with refined taste. Van Cleef & Arpels has a reputation for creating pieces that showcase an intricate blend of art and beauty.
Incorporation of Van Cleef & Arpels by the Royals
Pieces created by Van Cleef & Arpels have found their place in the royal collection, adorning members of the royal family for various occasions. One renowned piece is the Princess Grace of Monaco Necklace, which was gifted to Princess Grace by Prince Rainier III of Monaco on their wedding day. The necklace features delicate diamonds and sapphires, embodying elegance and grace.
Specific pieces owned by the Royals
In addition to the Princess Grace of Monaco Necklace, other notable pieces by Van Cleef & Arpels owned by the royals include the Duchess of Windsor’s Panther Bracelet and the Empress Farah Tiara. These pieces beautifully showcase Van Cleef & Arpels’ attention to detail and ability to create timeless designs that are fit for royalty.
Boucheron
Background and History
Boucheron, founded in 1858 in Paris, has a rich history of serving the elites, including the royal family. The brand pioneered innovative techniques and designs, establishing itself as a symbol of luxury and elegance. Boucheron has consistently pushed boundaries and set new standards in the world of high-end jewelry.
Boucheron’s Connection to the Royal Family
Boucheron’s association with the royal family is deeply intertwined with the brand’s commitment to exceptional craftsmanship and distinctive designs. Queen Elizabeth II has been known to favor Boucheron’s jewelry, wearing pieces such as the Boucheron Honeycomb Tiara and the Quatre Radiant Edition Diamond Necklace on various occasions. These pieces reflect Boucheron’s ability to create jewelry that beautifully combines classic elegance with a modern twist.
Key Boucheron Pieces in the Royal Collection
One of the most iconic Boucheron pieces in the royal collection is the Greville Emerald Kokoshnik Tiara. This stunning tiara, adorned with emeralds and diamonds, was crafted by Boucheron in 1919 and acquired by the British royal family through the Hon. Mrs. Ronald Greville. The tiara showcases Boucheron’s exemplary craftsmanship and is a cherished piece in the royal collection.
Bulgari
Introduction to Bulgari
Bulgari, founded in 1884 in Rome, is renowned for its bold and innovative designs. The brand’s creations have captured the attention of the royal family, who have regularly chosen Bulgari for their important occasions. Bulgari’s pieces reflect the vibrancy and opulence of Italian art and culture, making them a favorite among the royals.
The place of Bulgari in the royal vault
Bulgari’s presence in the royal vault is marked by several remarkable pieces that showcase the brand’s distinctive style. One notable piece is the Bulgari Emerald and Diamond Necklace, famously worn by Elizabeth Taylor. The breathtaking necklace features a series of emeralds and diamonds set in an intricate design, perfectly exemplifying Bulgari’s commitment to creating unique and luxurious pieces.
Popular pieces owned by the Royals
The royal family’s love for Bulgari extends to several notable pieces owned by individual members. The late Princess Diana, for instance, owned the Bulgari Sapphire and Diamond Sautoir Necklace, a piece that beautifully combined elegance with a touch of modernity. Queen Elizabeth II has also been seen wearing Bulgari pieces, such as the Bulgari Serpenti Bracelet, which showcases the brand’s iconic snake motif.
Chopard
Discovery of the brand
Chopard, established in 1860 in Switzerland, has gained recognition for its exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail. The brand’s commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing has resonated with the royal family, making Chopard a favored choice for many notable occasions. Chopard’s journey with the royals began with a chance encounter that shaped their future relationship.
Connection between the Royals and Chopard
Chopard’s connection with the royals can be traced back to the Cannes Film Festival in the late 1970s. At the festival, Chopard met Princess Caroline of Monaco, who became enchanted with the brand’s creations. Since then, Chopard has established a strong relationship with the royal family, regularly creating unique pieces for them. This connection has solidified the brand’s reputation as a leading name in luxury jewelry.
Chopard items within the royal family
Members of the royal family have been seen wearing Chopard pieces on various occasions. For instance, the Duchess of Cambridge, Kate Middleton, has been spotted wearing the Chopard Happy Diamonds Necklace, which features floating diamonds encased in sapphire glass. This piece perfectly encapsulates Chopard’s playful yet elegant style, making it a favorite among the royals.
Fabergé
Historical Significance of Fabergé
Fabergé, founded in 1842 in Saint Petersburg, Russia, is renowned for its intricate and opulent creations. The brand’s exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail have made it synonymous with luxury. Fabergé gained international recognition through its collaboration with the Russian Imperial family, creating some of the most exquisite pieces in history.
Relationship between Fabergé and the Royals
Fabergé’s relationship with the royals began with Tsar Nicholas II of Russia, who commissioned Fabergé to create the famous Fabergé Imperial Easter Eggs. These eggs, each a work of art in its own right, were given as gifts to members of the royal family. Today, Fabergé continues to create breathtaking jewelry that exhibits the brand’s historic connection to the royals.
Notable Fabergé pieces belonging to the Royals
Among the most notable Fabergé pieces in the royal collection is the Fabergé Winter Egg, gifted to Queen Elizabeth II by the Duke of Edinburgh. This stunning egg, created in 2008, features a delicate snowflake design encrusted with diamonds. Fabergé’s ability to seamlessly blend tradition with innovation is epitomized in pieces like the Winter Egg, making them prized possessions within the royal family.
In conclusion, the royal family has a penchant for renowned jewelry brands that embody luxury, elegance, and exceptional craftsmanship. Cartier, Garrard & Co, Asprey, Tiffany & Co, G. Collins and Sons, Van Cleef & Arpels, Boucheron, Bulgari, Chopard, and Fabergé have each left an indelible mark in the royal collection through their timeless and iconic pieces. These brands continue to be associated with the royal family, reflecting their deep-rooted connections and unwavering commitment to exceptional quality and design.
