In a touching tribute to her late mother-in-law, Queen Elizabeth, Camilla took center stage at a banquet in London alongside King Charles.
The Queen, aged 76, accompanied King Charles, aged 74, to Mansion House in London, where they attended historic events and enjoyed lunch with business leaders.
The event marked a significant moment for Camilla, as she wore the Daughters of Great Britain and Ireland tiara for the first time since Queen Elizabeth II’s passing in September 2022.
This exquisite tiara was originally presented to Queen Victoria Maria Tech on her wedding day to King George V back in 1893.
Affectionately called “Grandma’s Turban” by Her Majesty, the tiara had not been seen in public since the funeral of King George VI, shortly after Queen Elizabeth II’s ascension to the throne.
The tiara’s name derives from the women’s committee that raised funds to create it.
Made of silver and gold diamonds, it boasts 14 pearls and is adorned with 13 brilliant-cut diamonds.
It is believed to have been worn by Queen Elizabeth herself and has even appeared on some banknotes.
Camilla becomes the third queen to wear this remarkable piece, having initially gifted it to Queen Mary in 1893, who then passed it on to her granddaughter, Queen Elizabeth II, on her wedding day in 1947.
For this special occasion, Camilla chose to pair the tiara with a dazzling Bruce Oldfield gown, creating a truly regal ensemble.
As the royal couple arrived at the mansion, they witnessed the ceremonial presentation of the Sword of Pearls, a tradition observed by monarchs since the 17th century, marking their coronation.
The scabbard of the Pearl Sword, gifted to the City of London by Queen Elizabeth I in 1571, is adorned with approximately 2,500 pearls.
During the banquet, King Charles delivered an emotional and poignant speech, urging the audience to recognize the commonalities that bind us together, particularly in the face of increasingly polarizing online debates.
This long-standing tradition not only acknowledges the city’s work but also celebrates its livery company.
In his address, the King emphasized the need for unity and cooperation, cautioning against the dangers of divisive rhetoric in the digital realm.
He called upon individuals to listen respectfully to differing opinions and engage in passionate but non-combative dialogue.
The King described Britain as a community of communities, emphasizing the shared values that unite the nation.
He implored citizens to confront the harsh reality of climate change and utilize their innate decency and tolerance in political life, as well as in the broader national interest, especially during times of international turmoil and tragic loss of life.
Camilla’s appearance in Queen Elizabeth’s cherished tiara symbolizes the continuation of a legacy while honoring the past.
As the monarchy moves forward under King Charles’ reign, the event serves as a reminder of the importance of unity, dialogue, and collective action in addressing global challenges.