Whenever Kate Middleton selects a tiara for a state banquet or diplomatic reception, she more often than not reaches for the Queen Mary’s Lover’s Knot Tiara — a glittering piece that links modern royal style with a century-old tradition. Since first wearing it in 2015, the tiara has become her signature jewel, appearing at a large majority of her formal tiara occasions. In this article, we explore the tiara’s history, its symbolism, and what gives it enduring value.
A Brief History: From Queen Mary to Diana to Kate
While often called the “Cambridge Lover’s Knot Tiara,” the one Kate wears is technically Queen Mary’s Lover’s Knot Tiara, commissioned in 1913–14 by Queen Mary.
Originally, the tiara held 38 pearls — 19 dangling from arches, and 19 upright. Queen Mary later had the upright row removed to streamline the design, leaving 19 hanging pearls. Upon Mary’s death in 1953, the tiara passed to her granddaughter, Queen Elizabeth II.
Princess Diana’s Association
In 1981, as a wedding gift, the tiara was loaned by Queen Elizabeth II to Diana, Princess of Wales (although she chose to wear her Spencer family tiara on her wedding day). Over time, Diana made the Lover’s Knot one of her iconic pieces, wearing it at many state functions. It’s said the swinging pearls could give her headaches, but her use of it cemented it as part of her signature look. After her divorce, Diana returned it to the queen’s collection.
Kate Middleton’s Stewardship
Kate first wore the Lover’s Knot Tiara publicly in December 2015 at a diplomatic reception in Buckingham Palace. Since then, she has worn it for many of her most important formal occasions: state banquets, diplomatic receptions, and major tours. At the most recent U.S. State Banquet at Windsor Castle in September 2025, she paired it with a golden Chantilly lace gown by Phillipa Lepley — a moment that underscored how deeply the tiara has become part of her formal visual language.
Kate is not only linking herself to Diana’s legacy but also ensuring that the tiara remains visible in contemporary royal style. I mean, at the estinated vaue it’s worth, I too could see myself wearing it often.
Value, Legacy, and Retained Worth
The estimated monetary value of the tiara is inherently speculative (because most such pieces are never sold), but public and expert commentary has placed the Lover’s Knot Tiara at around US $135 million.
Some rival sources, however, suggest far lower figures — for example, listings or media slideshows have quoted values in the low millions (or even $1–2 million) — likely confusing replicas or insurance valuations.
Regardless of the exact sum, the tiara’s value is as much about intangible heritage as gem weight. It connects Queen Mary, Queen Elizabeth II, Diana, and now the Princess of Wales. Its continued use in high-profile events helps maintain its cultural capital and prestige.
Final Thoughts
The Lover’s Knot Tiara is more than an exquisite gem-and-pearl diadem: it is a living thread through modern royal history. Kate Middleton’s repeated use of it doesn’t just echo Diana’s style — it actively sustains a tradition, reinforcing her role as guardian of royal continuity. Whether or not the headline number of $135 million is accepted universally, no one disputes that the tiara holds far greater worth than raw materials can measure.