Princesa Charlotte e Kate – Foto: Lorna Roberts / shutterstock
Princess Charlotte, daughter of William and Kate Middleton, may inherit the Spencer tiara, an iconic jewel of Princess Diana valued at 3 million reais, worn during her 1981 wedding to Charles III. The piece, a Spencer family heirloom, is not part of the Crown Jewels and is believed to be held by Charles Spencer, Diana’s brother. Experts point to Charlotte as the primary candidate due to her place in the line of succession, with potential to wear the tiara at future events, such as her wedding. The jewel, adorned with diamonds and dating back to the 18th century, symbolizes Diana’s legacy. The prospect of this inheritance reignites discussions about preserving royal historical items.
History of the Spencer tiara
The Spencer tiara, one of the most iconic jewels of British aristocracy, originates from the 18th century, belonging to the Spencer family. The piece, featuring diamonds and intricate details, was worn by Princess Diana at her wedding to then-Prince Charles on July 29, 1981, at St. Paul’s Cathedral in London. Diana’s choice of a family heirloom over a Crown jewel was seen as a gesture of independence and connection to her lineage. Since her death in 1997, the tiara has rarely appeared in public, retaining its status as a relic.
The jewel is not part of the royal collection, being considered private property of the Spencer family. It is currently believed to be under the care of Charles Spencer, 9th Earl Spencer, Diana’s brother. Its historical and sentimental value elevates its worth, estimated at 400,000 pounds (about 3 million reais).
The possibility of Charlotte inheriting the tiara reinforces her connection to her grandmother’s legacy, a central figure in modern monarchy. Experts suggest the piece could be worn at formal occasions, such as royal weddings, perpetuating Diana’s memory.
- Origin: 18th century, Spencer family heirloom.
- Notable use: Diana and Charles’ wedding in 1981.
- Estimated value: 400,000 pounds (3 million reais).
- Ownership: Belongs to the Spencer family, not the Crown.
Why Charlotte is the main candidate?
Among Diana’s grandchildren, Charlotte, aged 10, is seen as the most likely to inherit the tiara due to her position in the British line of succession. As the daughter of Prince William, second in line, she is a central figure in the royal family. Experts like Maxwell Stone note that her proximity to the Crown makes her the natural choice to receive the jewel for significant events, such as a future wedding.
Lilibet, daughter of Harry and Meghan, also a granddaughter of Diana, has fewer chances due to the Sussex family’s distance from the monarchy. Raised in the United States, Lilibet lives outside traditional royal circles, reducing her connection to royal customs and jewels.
The tiara, beyond its financial value, carries symbolic weight. For Charlotte, wearing it would be a way to honor Diana, strengthening her tie to her grandmother.
- Charlotte’s position: Third in line to the throne.
- Lilibet: Less involved with royal traditions.
- Symbolism: Tribute to Diana’s legacy.
Cultural significance of the jewel
The Spencer tiara transcends its monetary value, symbolizing British history and Diana’s influence. Her choice in 1981 marked a break from tradition, as royal brides typically opted for Crown jewels. The piece, with its floral design and diamonds, reflects Diana’s elegance and personality, worn at other official events.
The jewel also represents the Spencer family, one of Britain’s most traditional aristocratic lines. Its return to the royal family through Charlotte would be a milestone in preserving Diana’s legacy, a globally beloved figure.
Public interest in the tiara reflects ongoing fascination with Diana’s life. Exhibitions featuring her belongings, such as dresses and jewelry, draw crowds, and Charlotte wearing it would reignite this appeal.
- Design: Floral, with diamonds, typical of the 18th century.
- Impact: Diana’s 1981 choice broke traditions.
- Legacy: Direct connection to Spencer history.
- Public interest: Diana remains a global icon.
Future of the tiara in the royal family
The potential transfer of the tiara to Charlotte raises questions about how the royal family handles family heirlooms. Unlike Crown jewels, which belong to the state, the Spencer tiara is a private asset, giving the family freedom to decide its fate. Charles Spencer, as its current guardian, may choose to keep it in the family or pass it to the royals via Charlotte.
Future events, such as Charlotte’s wedding, could be the ideal stage for the tiara’s reappearance. The piece would symbolize continuity, linking generations of the royal family. Its appearance would also reinforce Charlotte’s role as a central figure in the modern monarchy.
The tiara may inspire other royal jewels to be revisited. In recent years, Kate Middleton has worn historic pieces, like the Lover’s Knot tiara, another of Diana’s favorites, suggesting Charlotte may follow suit.
- Ownership: Charles Spencer decides the jewel’s future.
- Occasions: Charlotte’s wedding would be an ideal moment.
- Precedent: Kate already wears jewels linked to Diana.
Curiosities about the Spencer tiara
The Spencer tiara is not just a jewel but a piece steeped in history and symbolism. Its journey reflects Diana’s influence and the Spencer family’s strength in British aristocracy.
- Ancient origin: Crafted in the 18th century, with later modifications.
- Rare use: Appeared in few public events after 1981.
- Sentimental value: Represents Diana’s independence.
- Family heirloom: Passed down through Spencer generations.
- Unique design: Combines diamonds with floral motifs.
