The overseas trip as monarchs, visiting Germany before their coronation on May 6. During the state visit, Camilla wore a stunning deep navy Anna Valentine coat dress, but the accessory she paired it with caught everyone’s attention.
The Queen Consort adorned her outfit with a giant sapphire and diamond brooch, known as Prince Albert’s brooch, which holds great significance in Germany. The brooch was gifted by German-born Prince Albert to his bride, Queen Victoria, on their wedding day in 1840. It was one of her favorite pieces of jewelry and was designated an “Heirloom of the Crown,” ensuring that it would be worn by future queen regnant and consorts.
The diamonds on the brooch are set in open-backed collets, and it is uncertain whether the brooch was made in England or Albert’s native Germany. The brooch has been worn by all four women who held the position of queen regnant and consort since Queen Victoria.
In her diary, Queen Victoria described the brooch as “a splendid brooch, a large sapphire set round with diamonds, which is quite beautiful.” The Royal Collection Trust noted that the brooch’s maker is unknown, but it remains a cherished piece of royal jewelry to this day.
Camilla’s choice to wear the brooch during her visit to Germany is a testament to the historical and cultural significance of the piece, and it further reinforces the strong ties between the British monarchy and Germany.
