Why Princess Diana’s $500 Million Tiara Won’t Go to Kate or Meghan
The diamond-encrusted headpiece was paired with her iconic silk taffeta dress and 25-foot train, creating one of the defining images of modern royal history. But despite being forever linked to Diana, the tiara is not owned by the royal family and remains the property of the Spencer family, meaning it is unlikely to ever pass to Princess Kate, 44, or Meghan, also 44, according to royal jewelry experts.
Before Diana wore it, the tiara was already a beloved heirloom of the Spencer family.
It was previously worn by her older sisters, Lady Jane Fellowes and Lady Sarah McCorquodale, on their wedding days.
A royal source told us: “There is a common misconception that the Spencer tiara has somehow become part of the royal collection because of Diana’s fame. In reality, it has always remained the property of the Spencer family, and decisions about its future rest entirely with the family and not the monarchy.”
The insider added: “Its significance extends far beyond Diana. The tiara represents generations of Spencer family history, which is why there was never any serious expectation that it would be passed down to members of the royal family through marriage.”
Rumors have swirled for years that Markle hoped to wear the Spencer tiara when she married Prince Harry, 41, in May 2018, but those claims have never been confirmed.
Instead, the Duchess wore Queen Mary’s Diamond Bandeau Tiara, while Kate chose Queen Elizabeth II’s Cartier Halo Tiara for her wedding to 43-year-old Prince William in April 2011.
The Spencer tiara is estimated to be worth more than $500 million. The jewel was made in 1937 for Cynthia Spencer, Countess Spencer, wife of the 7th Earl Spencer.
Jewelry historians said the piece was composed of a collection of 19th-century diamond ornaments.
Sotheby’s has described the design as “designed in a garland style as a central heart flanked by continuous scrolls, alternating with star- and trumpet-shaped flowers.”
It adds that the treasure is “entirely set with circle and rose-cut, cushion and pear-cut diamonds, mounted in gold.”
After Cynthia Spencer’s death, the tiara passed to her son, John Spencer, the 8th Earl Spencer, and Diana’s father.
When he died in 1992, the property passed to Diana’s younger brother, Charles Spencer – the current 9th Earl Spencer, famous for his eulogy at his sister’s funeral.
Another source said: ‘The line of succession for the tiara is actually very simple. He follows in the Spencer family lineage and is expected to remain there. Regardless of the public fascination with Diana’s legacy, ownership has never been in doubt. It will never leave the family.’
This arrangement means that the heirloom is expected to ultimately pass to Charles Spencer’s son, Louis Spencer, Viscount Althorp, and not to any member of the royal family.
While the Spencer tiara remains out of their reach, both Kate and Markle have inherited or gained access to other pieces related to Diana.
Kate famously wears Diana’s sapphire and diamond engagement ring, while also wearing several items from the late princess’ jewelry collection.
Markle, meanwhile, regularly wears Diana’s gold Cartier Tank Française watch, one of the most recognizable pieces from the princess’s personal collection and an enduring bond with her husband Harry’s mother.
