Catherine Gorgeous In A Red Coat And The Empress Diamond Necklace from Mappin & Webb
The Empress Diamond Necklace by Mappin & Webb has become a cornerstone of Catherine’s jewelry collection, making frequent appearances at major public events. Catherine first wore the necklace during a visit to an art exhibition at the Tower of London in August 2014. At the time, she donned a blue LK Bennett dress, which created a dramatic contrast against the sea of red ceramic poppies surrounding her. This memorial installation would eventually contain 888,246 poppies, each representing a British, Australian, or Commonwealth individual who died in the war. As Catherine and Prince William navigated through the field, alongside Prince Harry, they planted poppies, adding to the collection. Catherine was seen brushing away tears, deeply moved by the installation.
Since its debut in 2014, the Empress Diamond Necklace has been worn at 18 public events, becoming a symbol of Catherine’s evolving royal role. Most recently, she paired it with a white suit at the Rugby World Cup. Crafted from 18CT white gold and adorned with 0.44 carats of round-cut diamonds, the necklace is described as both sparkling and versatile. The adjustable chain allows for easy wear at both formal occasions and more casual settings. Priced at approximately £2,000, the necklace has become a go-to accessory for the Princess of Wales, fitting seamlessly into her diverse style.
Before 2014, Catherine’s jewelry collection primarily consisted of family heirlooms, such as her sapphire engagement ring, which once belonged to Princess Diana. The addition of the Empress Necklace marked a significant shift in her style, showcasing her growing confidence in her royal role. It wasn’t just an accessory; it was a statement piece.
In July 2015, Catherine wore the necklace again at her daughter Princess Charlotte’s christening at the Church of St. Mary Magdalene in Kings Lynn, England. The event was a deeply personal family occasion. Catherine paired the Empress Necklace with a cream Alexander McQueen dress, striking the perfect balance between elegance and simplicity. The look was completed with Empress Diamond Earrings and nude LK Bennett pumps, subtly elevating the outfit for the christening’s intimate yet public nature.
More recently, as Catherine embraces a “power suit” phase with ensembles from Burberry and Amelia Wickstead, the Empress Necklace continues to add sophistication to her modern style. As patron of the Rugby Football Union since 2022, Catherine attended the Rugby World Cup opening ceremony in September 2023 to support England’s team. She wore a crisp white suit—tailored, powerful, and chic—paired with the Empress Necklace to bring a touch of glamour to the sporty look. Nude heels and a clutch completed her ensemble, showcasing the necklace’s versatility to elevate even a casual suit under stadium lights.
The necklace has also appeared at other notable events. At the Order of the Garter in 2016, Catherine wore it with a vibrant red Catherine Walker coat, adding a pop of color to an otherwise overcast day. She attended the ceremony with Prince William, and her mother-in-law, Camilla, the Princess of Wales, was also present, opting for an elegant champagne gold silk dress and a green-embroidered coat. Catherine’s radiant presence, waving to well-wishers as she arrived at the castle, captured the attention of many.
As Catherine prepares for her future role as queen, it’s likely we will see the Empress Diamond Necklace make even more frequent appearances at state banquets and official royal tours. This versatile piece will continue to embody her evolving royal style—blending elegance, grace, and modern sophistication.
