Thursday, 27th October 2005 (4231 views)

The Duchess of Cornwall has made her royal banquet debut in a dazzling gold-mounted tiara, which has only been worn twice before.

The tiara, which was loaned to her by the Queen, carries brilliant-cut diamonds mounted in gold and set in platinum.

It was made in 1911 for Queen Mary, who wore the piece during the coronation of her husband George V as King and Emperor of India.

The Queen Mother was given it for a 1947 South African visit, before it passed into the hands of Queen Elizabeth II, who has not worn it.

Whilst it originally incorporated five Cambridge cabochon emeralds, they were taken out by Queen Mary and now form a separate tiara for the Queen.

Camilla, who married Prince Charles in April, wore the jewellery at her first royal banquet, called in honour of the King and Queen of Norway.

Crown Prince Haakon of Norway and Crown Princess Mette-Marit also attended the banquet, along with Tony Blair, Jack Straw and Archbishop of Canterbury Rowan Williams.

Guests are required to wear full ceremonial dress for royal banquets, which for women includes tiaras.

 

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