As royal watchers eagerly await Trooping the Colour 2026, all eyes will once again be on Catherine, Princess of Wales, and the carefully chosen accessories that have become a hallmark of her public appearances.
Over the years, Kate has worn some of the most historic pieces from the royal collection, many of them entrusted to her by the late Queen Elizabeth II.
From dazzling tiaras to pearl necklaces steeped in royal history, these jewelry loans have helped define Kate’s evolution from royal newcomer to future queen.
Ahead of this year’s celebrations, take a look back at some of the most memorable pieces Queen Elizabeth allowed Kate to wear.
Queen Mary Lover’s Knot Tiara:
Perhaps no royal jewel is more closely associated with Kate than the Queen Mary Lover’s Knot Tiara.
© PA ImagesOriginally commissioned by Queen Mary in 1913, the striking diamond-and-pearl tiara later became one of Princess Diana’s most recognizable pieces before finding a new chapter with Kate.
© Chris JacksonThe Princess of Wales has worn it for numerous diplomatic receptions and state banquets, making it one of her signature royal accessories.
The Bahrain Pearl Drop Earrings:
Among the most meaningful pieces Kate has borrowed are the Bahrain Pearl Drop Earrings.
© Chris JacksonThe earrings were created using pearls gifted to Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip as a wedding present in 1947.
© Max Mumby/IndigoKate has worn the elegant heirloom on several significant occasions, including remembrance events and commemorations honoring the late monarch.
The Japanese Pearl Choker:
Originally commissioned by Queen Elizabeth using cultured pearls gifted by the Japanese government, the four-strand Japanese Pearl Choker has become one of Kate’s most notable borrowed pieces.
© Anwar HusseinThe Princess of Wales wore the necklace at Prince Philip’s funeral in 2021 and again during ceremonies honoring Queen Elizabeth in 2022, cementing its place among her most memorable royal jewelry moments.
© Max Mumby/IndigoThe Nizam of Hyderabad Necklace:
Considered one of the most valuable pieces in the royal collection, the Nizam of Hyderabad Necklace was gifted to Queen Elizabeth as a wedding present in 1947.
© Print CollectorKate first wore the spectacular diamond necklace during a portrait gala in 2014, introducing a new generation of royal fans to one of the collection’s most famous treasures.
© Max Mumby/IndigoThe Diamond and Pearl Leaf Brooch:
Kate has also been seen wearing the Diamond and Pearl Leaf Brooch, a delicate piece from Queen Elizabeth’s collection.
© Fiona Hanson – PA ImagesThough less frequently photographed than some of the royal family’s larger jewels, the brooch remains an elegant example of the historic pieces the late monarch trusted Kate to wear.
© Yui Mok – PA ImagesA legacy of royal style:
While Trooping the Colour is often remembered for its military pageantry and balcony appearances, it also serves as a showcase for royal fashion and tradition.
Whether or not Kate debuts another historic jewel this year, her most memorable jewelry loans from Queen Elizabeth have already secured a special place in modern royal history, connecting the Princess of Wales to generations of women who wore these treasured pieces before her.
