Kate Middleton Steps Onto the Red Carpet Wearing the Queen Mother’s Necklace and Princess Diana’s Earrings

Jewelry can often tell a story — and the pieces worn by the Princess of Wales certainly can. Kate Middleton joined Prince William for the world premiere of Tom Cruise’s new film Digger at ODEON Luxe Leicester Square in London.

For the red-carpet appearance, the 44-year-old royal chose a striking deep-plum gown by Jenny Packham, featuring a plunging neckline, elegant waist draping and a long, flowing skirt.

But the real highlight of her look was not the dress or her hairstyle, but the jewelry with a particularly rich royal history.

The Princess of Wales accessorized her gown with the Queen Mother’s rare Amethyst Sautoir Necklace — a piece that has been part of the royal collection for more than a century. The exquisite necklace combines pearls, diamonds and amethysts.

The story of the necklace dates back to 1923, when Queen Alexandra gave it to Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon, the future Queen Mother, as a wedding gift.

The piece rarely leaves the royal collection. Its last public appearance was in 2012, when the then Duchess of Cornwall, now Queen Camilla, wore it to the premiere of Skyfall.

Kate paired the historic necklace with another piece carrying special significance for the Prince of Wales’ family: a pair of pearl earrings that once belonged to Princess Diana.

With a single look, the Princess of Wales therefore brought together jewelry associated with two of the most iconic women in the royal family — the Queen Mother and Diana.

At the premiere, Kate and William appeared relaxed and at ease as they reunited with Tom Cruise, who had previously welcomed them to the London premiere of Top Gun: Maverick in 2022.

During the evening, the royal couple also met with the cast and creators of Digger, including Jesse Plemons, John Goodman and Emma D’Arcy.