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Queen Camilla Revives Royal Jewel for State Opening
14 May
Summary
- Queen Camilla wore the George IV State Diadem at the May 13, 2026 State Opening of Parliament.
- The 1,333-diamond diadem dates to 1820 and was commissioned for King George IV.
- This diadem has been passed down through queens, becoming an heirloom.
- Queen Elizabeth II also wore the diadem for state ceremonies.
On May 13, 2026, Queen Camilla made a striking appearance at the State Opening of Parliament in London, choosing to wear the George IV State Diadem. This magnificent piece, adorned with 1,333 diamonds, originates from 1820 and was first commissioned by King George IV for his coronation. The diadem includes a notable four-carat yellow diamond and symbolic motifs representing England, Scotland, and Ireland.
Following George IV's reign, the diadem was passed to William IV, Queen Adelaide, and then Queen Victoria. Queen Victoria established it as a royal heirloom, intended to be passed from queen to queen. Subsequent monarchs, including Queen Alexandra, Queen Mary, and Queen Elizabeth II, utilized the diadem for significant state occasions and official portraits.
Queen Elizabeth II first wore the diadem in 1952 for the opening of Parliament, reserving its use for major state ceremonies. Camilla's choice to wear it on May 13, 2026, underscores the diadem's specific ceremonial significance, distinguishing it from her attire at previous openings in 2023 and 2025, which featured different gowns.
